Apple has acquired Q.ai, a privately held Israeli artificial intelligence startup, in a deal valued at around $1.6–$2 billion, according to people familiar with the matter. Apple did not disclose the financial terms of the acquisition. Q.ai was backed by venture capital firms Matter Venture Partners, Kleiner Perkins, Spark Capital, Exor, and GV, formerly known as Google Ventures.
Q.ai Technology and capabilities
Q.ai works on artificial intelligence technologies for audio and imaging, focusing on improving how devices interpret whispered or silent speech and enhance audio performance in challenging environments. Apple said the startup has developed new applications of machine learning to help devices better understand subtle voice input.
Patent filings from Q.ai describe systems that use facial skin micromovements to detect words that are mouthed or softly spoken. The technology can also be used to identify individuals and assess indicators such as emotional state, heart rate, and respiration. These capabilities are intended for use in products such as earbuds, headphones, and smart glasses, enabling more private, non-verbal interaction with devices.
Strategic context
Apple has not disclosed how it plans to integrate Q.ai’s technology, but the acquisition comes as the company increases its focus on artificial intelligence and wearable devices amid competition from Meta, Google, and OpenAI. Apple has already added AI-powered features to its AirPods lineup, including technology that enables real-time translation between languages.
The company recently confirmed that Google’s Gemini models will be used to support parts of its AI services, branded Apple Intelligence.
Team and background
Q.ai was founded in Tel Aviv in 2022 by Aviad Maizels, Yonatan Wexler, and Avi Barliya. Around 100 employees, including the founding team, will join Apple as part of the deal. Maizels previously founded PrimeSense, a three-dimensional sensing company Apple acquired in 2013. PrimeSense’s technology later contributed to Apple’s move away from fingerprint sensors toward Face ID facial recognition on iPhones.
Outlook
The acquisition ranks among Apple’s larger deals and reflects its growing investment in on-device AI, advanced audio processing, and new input methods. While Apple has not announced specific product plans, Q.ai’s technology could support future wearable devices that rely on quieter, more context-aware interaction models.