Samsung to Acquire Viv, the Next Generation Artificial Intelligence Platform

Samsung today announced that it has agreed to acquire Viv Labs, the intelligent interface to everything.

Viv was founded by AI visionaries Dag Kittlaus, Adam Cheyer and Chris Brigham, the creators of Siri, the digital assistant software that Apple acquired in 2010. Soon after Apple integrated the group’s technology into its mobile operating system, iOS, the team left to start Viv.

Viv has developed a unique, open artificial intelligence (AI) platform that gives third-party developers the power to use and build conversational assistants and integrate a natural language-based interface into renowned applications and services.

The deal showcases Samsung’s commitment to virtual personal assistants and is part of the company’s broader vision to deliver an AI-based open ecosystem across all of its devices and services.

With Viv, Samsung will be able to unlock and offer new service experiences for its customers, including one that simplifies user interfaces, understands the context of the user and offers the user the most appropriate and convenient suggestions and recommendations.

As part of the acquisition, the founding team will work closely with Samsung’s Mobile Communications business, but continue to operate independently under its existing leadership.