In-Q-Tel Invests in i-Blades to Introduce New Smartphone Tech to Government

Silicon Valley startup i-Blades secured an investment from In-Q-Tel as both companies aim to the accelerate the development of a smartphone technology offering for U.S. intelligence and defense agencies.

IQT said Tuesday it invested in and partnered with the smartphone technology maker to help transform mobile devices for government use.

Milpitas, Calif.-based i-Blades designed its technology to help customers utilize smartphones in different environments, industries or special sectors. The company has produced a mobile phone case that features a universal modular expansion architecture.

“The ability to take off-the-shelf smartphones and add additional functionality is critical for U.S. government customers,” said Eileen Tanghal, partner for investments at IQT.

Jorge Fernandes, i-Blades CEO, said the company offers products tailored to user specifications and the partnership with IQT would allow his company to introduce products to national security missions.