Nigerian-American engineer and Harvard University graduate, Yinka Ogunbiyi, has developed the world’s first braid-assist robot, HaloBraid.
HaloBraid, designed to support professional hairstylists, helps reduce the physical strain associated with long hours of braiding while significantly improving efficiency in salons.
The innovation is expected to ease workload, shorten appointment times, and enhance productivity for hair professionals.
The startup behind the technology has already attracted strong investor confidence, raising $7 million to accelerate the robot’s development and commercial rollout.
Interest in the innovation has also surged across the beauty industry, with more than 7,000 salons reportedly joining the waitlist ahead of its wider release.
Ogunbiyi’s invention is being hailed as a landmark achievement at the intersection of robotics, artificial intelligence, and beauty services.
It showcases how technological innovation can transform traditional industries while creating global impact.

