Bengaluru-based physical AI vision startup Nova Spectral AI has raised Rs 21.15 crore, approximately $2.25 million, in a seed funding round led by Shastra VC. The round also saw participation from Equirus InnovateX Fund and angel investors.
The company will use the fresh capital to build its team and develop a field-ready prototype within the next 18 months, according to a press release.
Founded in 2026 by Anish Priyadarshi and Sanjeev Kumar, Nova Spectral AI is developing lead-free colloidal quantum dot (cQD) short-wave infrared (SWIR) image sensor chips using standard silicon complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) technology. The sensors are designed for defence intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), as well as physical AI applications.
Nova Spectral AI Develops Indigenous Infrared Imaging Technology
Nova Spectral AI is working on an indigenous quantum dot SWIR image sensor chip that can help cameras capture images in conditions where conventional cameras may struggle, including low light, haze and smoke.
The technology could be used in drones, surveillance systems, robots and autonomous vehicles, where reliable imaging is important for navigation, monitoring and decision-making.
The startup uses CMOS-compatible manufacturing processes and indium arsenide (InAs) colloidal quantum dots to develop its infrared sensors. By building these sensors on standard silicon CMOS, the company aims to make SWIR imaging more affordable and scalable across different applications.
Nova Spectral AI aims to reduce sensor costs by up to 100 times compared with conventional indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) technology. If achieved, this cost reduction could make infrared imaging accessible to a wider range of industries and devices.
Technology Targets Defence and Physical AI Applications
In defence, SWIR imaging can support surveillance and reconnaissance in challenging environments. Nova Spectral AI’s technology could expand the use of these sensors across drones and other ISR platforms while helping reduce dependence on imported sensors.
Beyond defence, the company is targeting applications in smartphones, wearables, robots and automobiles.
The technology is also relevant to the broader physical AI sector, where machines use sensors and AI systems to understand their surroundings and interact with the physical world. More affordable infrared imaging could support robots and autonomous vehicles operating in conditions that limit conventional camera performance.
Colloidal quantum dot SWIR sensors built on standard silicon CMOS are being explored as an alternative to traditional infrared imaging technologies. Their potential lies in combining infrared sensing with manufacturing processes already used in the semiconductor industry.
However, Nova Spectral AI is still developing its technology, with a field-ready prototype targeted within 18 months. Its ability to achieve the intended cost reductions and performance will be important as it moves towards deployment.
Indian Startups Explore Indigenous Infrared Sensors
Nova Spectral AI is entering a technology segment where Indian startups are also working to develop domestic alternatives for specialised imaging and sensing applications.
Another company in the space, SpectraGaze Systems, raised Rs 3.7 crore in seed funding led by GVFL. The company is developing indigenous infrared detectors, optical imaging sensors and electro-optical payloads for space and defence applications.
Both companies are working on technologies that could support domestic capabilities in infrared imaging and reduce reliance on imported components in specialised sectors.
With its Rs 21.15 crore seed funding, Nova Spectral AI plans to expand its team and advance its quantum dot SWIR sensor technology towards a field-ready prototype. Its progress over the next 18 months will be a key step in determining how the technology can be used across defence, robotics, autonomous systems and consumer devices.
-By Shivani Solanki
