Nigerian Engineer Yinka Ogunbiyi Unveils HaloBraid Hair-Braiding Robot
Nigerian-American engineer and entrepreneur Yinka Ogunbiyi has unveiled a demonstration of HaloBraid, an innovative hair-braiding device designed to help professional hairstylists complete individual braids up to five times faster.
The demonstration, shared on HaloBraid’s Instagram account in October 2026, offers a closer look at how the technology could transform the traditional hair-braiding process, which often requires hours of repetitive manual work.
How HaloBraid Works
Unlike a fully automated robot that handles an entire hairstyle independently, HaloBraid is designed to work alongside professional hairstylists.
The stylist sections the client’s hair, prepares the extensions and begins each braid manually before feeding it into the device. HaloBraid then handles the repetitive weaving process, after which the stylist completes and secures the braid.
According to the company, the device can finish individual braids up to five times faster than manual braiding. However, the actual time saved during a complete appointment will depend on the hairstyle, braid size and the stylist’s workflow.
The technology is designed to assist with styles such as box braids and knotless braids. Its purpose is to reduce repetitive work while allowing professional stylists to retain control over the final hairstyle.
The Experience That Inspired the Invention
Ogunbiyi’s idea for HaloBraid emerged during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, when she attempted to braid her own hair and spent four days completing the process.
Drawing on her engineering background, she recognised an opportunity to apply technology to a task that demands considerable time, patience and repetitive hand movements.
She subsequently partnered with David Afolabi to develop the device through their company, Halo. The project aims to make braiding more efficient for stylists while improving the experience for clients who spend long hours in salon chairs.
HaloBraid Raises $7 Million in Funding
The company attracted significant investor interest earlier in 2026, securing $7 million in seed funding in a round led by Seven Seven Six, the venture capital firm founded by Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian. Other participating investors included AlleyCorp and Bling Capital.
Reports have also indicated that more than 7,000 salons joined the company’s waiting list, suggesting considerable interest in the technology among beauty professionals.
HaloBraid plans to introduce the device through a phased rollout involving selected stylists and salons. Its commercial success will depend on how effectively it performs in everyday salon settings and whether the claimed time savings can be achieved without compromising the quality of finished braids.
Could HaloBraid Change the Hair-Braiding Industry?
If the technology performs as intended, HaloBraid could help hairstylists manage lengthy appointments more efficiently, potentially allowing them to serve more clients. It could also reduce some of the repetitive physical effort associated with professional braiding.
However, the device is designed to assist hairstylists, not replace them. Professionals will still be responsible for preparing the hair, starting each braid and ensuring that the finished hairstyle meets the client’s expectations.
Ogunbiyi’s invention highlights how engineering can address everyday challenges in the beauty industry. As HaloBraid moves towards wider commercial use, its performance in working salons will be an important test of its potential to change how protective hairstyles are created.
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