Lichtsteiner invests in keys that cannot be copied

Traditional keys can be copied easily in the age of 3D printing, with a photo of the key often being all that is needed. Zurich startup UrbanAlps has found a solution to this problem with its Stealth Key. The key hides most of its security features internally, which means it cannot be reproduced with a photo or scan. The Stealth Key is a purely mechanical solution. It has neither magnetic or electronic elements, which would both lead to high production costs. According to information provided by UrbanAlps, it is also the world's first metal key that is made by 3D printing.

UrbanAlps recently raised 2.5 million francs in a financing round, as was reported in an article on startupticker.ch. The round attracted seven investors from Finland, Germany, Norway and Switzerland, including Swiss football player Stephan Lichtsteiner.

These funds will enable UrbanAlps to take the step from prototype to mass production. According to company CEO Alejandro Ojeda, hardware startups face the challenge of needing comparatively high investment in order to make the transition to mass production. He is therefore particularly pleased about the support of industrialists.