The AFTR startup exited stealth mode with a fundraising of $2.5 million.

AFTR has launched a line of cemetery cameras that enable grief-stricken relatives and friends to visit the gravesite of their dear, departed person virtually. During the pandemic, many of us were unable to pay our last respects to the deceased because of lockdowns and other restrictions. AFTR’s products enable a connection, even though virtual and via a phone screen, to the loved one. (New York Post)

During the pandemic, a record number of people had to hold funerals online as it was unsafe to attend a gathering of mourners.

AFTR cameras: on-demand, virtual, burial and cemetery visits

The death care startup has introduced two weather-resistant, solar-powered cameras each costing $499. These are mountable either on a headstone (the MountCam) or the gravesite (GroundCam) to virtually transmit visuals of the grave to the mourners.

Equipped with night vision and laser technology, they can capture HD video and audio and incorporate built-in audio.

They connect to users through the AFTR app, which runs a 24/7 video stream and a two-way audio stream. The app allows for rather a realistic Memoriam because one can play soulful music and open up photos, videos, and notes in it.

“I connect whenever I’m missing her, and I have got a bunch of her favorite Frank Sinatra songs in the app that brings me back to happier times with her,” said Michael about his deceased mother to NY Post.

A new category in the death care market

AFTR’s cameras are a new category in the growing death care market. According to a company statement, the U.S. death care market is likely to reach revenues of an estimated $68 billion by 2023.

Joseph Schecter founded the startup in 2018.

“After losing my father and facing devastating personal loss, I was able to find solace as I looked for ways for me and my siblings to connect with my late father’s memory,” he said. “Now more than ever, our goal is to help people stay connected to their loved ones despite geographic boundaries or the virus.”

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