A thread of simplicity to guide digital inclusion

The pandemic boosted the project of three young engineers (Isabel García, Adrià Roca and Gerard Pinar) who created a tablet, Bleta , specifically designed for older people with limited digital skills , with a simple, accessible interface adapted to their real needs. The next step was to launch, in 2023, independent software for any Android device that improves digital accessibility. After selling more than 2,000 tablets and a forecast turnover of 300,000 euros in 2025, they are now facing ambitious projects , such as reaching half a million downloads (they have 170,000 in 20 countries) and opening up to the main markets in Europe and Latin America.

It all began with a tablet donation campaign, many of which ended up in hospitals and nursing homes, back when screens were the only way to communicate with family and friends , all of whom were in lockdown. "The idea came about precisely when the nursing homes told us they didn't understand these devices, and we decided to design a model to address the huge problem of the digital divide," says Isabel García, co-founder and CEO of Bleta.

The three founders, all electronic engineers, previously worked on extending the lifespan of electronic devices and founded the company in July 2021, starting to sell to residential homes, although many individuals also wanted to buy the tablet. "We started improving the device, with a good screen, good sound, useful accessories like a pen, a rotating case..." explains the CEO. And it was precisely by listening to customers that they decided to take another leap. Many told them they already had a tablet and thought it made sense to develop software . "It's been quite a challenge because Android is made up of many different brands, and each one modifies the operating system," the young engineer acknowledges.

With this free app, when installed on a mobile phone or tablet, the device transforms into a Bleta "and is easier to use." Its users are people with lower digital skills, who need more accessible technology . Thanks to the introduction of AI, for example, they can ask their device to send a WhatsApp message to a family member.

One of the things that most concerns the Bleta team is ensuring that new technology "is accessible as quickly as possible. We include every new development in the software so that the technology doesn't leave anyone behind," the CEO explains.

At the beginning of this year, the company announced the closing of a €320,000 investment round, in addition to €226,000 in public funding, bringing the total to over half a million euros to accelerate its growth. This funding is allowing them to accelerate internationalization, expand their user base, and develop new integrations and strategic alliances. This will allow them to continue designing the technology to be universal.