AstraLens launches live video understanding API for UX research and raises $18M

Design · 4 min read

AstraLens’ API processes live or recorded user sessions to identify gestures, on-screen attention, and notable micro-interactions, then outputs structured annotations and event timelines for researchers. The company emphasizes privacy features such as client-side masking and consent flows.

The $18 million Series A was led by Meridian Capital with participation from design studio investors. Funds will be used to improve model accuracy in diverse lighting and webcam conditions, add transcription and emotion-detection opt-ins, and integrate with common UX tools like Optimal Workshop and Lookback.

Researchers piloting AstraLens reported faster triage of user pain points and more objective measures for session summaries. The startup positions the product as a way to reduce manual video review while preserving human oversight for nuance and interpretation.