Apple announced Thursday that it has acquired Q.ai, an Israeli startup specializing in artificial intelligence technology for voice processing.
Q.ai’s founding team, including CEO Aviad Maizels, will join Apple. Maisels previously founded 3D sensing company PrimeSense, which was acquired by Apple in 2013. The deal played a key role in Apple’s transition from iPhone fingerprint sensors (Touch ID) to facial recognition technology (Face ID).
Reuters:
Apple did not disclose the terms of the agreement or what Q.ai’s technology would be used for, but said the company is working on new applications of machine learning to help devices understand whispered voices and enhance speech in difficult environments. “Joining Apple opens up extraordinary possibilities to push boundaries and realize the full potential of what we create, and we’re excited to bring these experiences to people around the world,” Maisels said in a statement.
Q.ai is “a remarkable company that is pioneering new and creative ways to use imaging and machine learning,” Johny Srouji, Apple’s senior vice president of hardware technology, said in a statement. “We are excited to acquire this company with Aviad at the helm and are even more excited about what lies ahead.”
Q.ai co-founders Yonatan Wexler and Avi Barya will also join Apple, the companies announced.
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