AI startup Humane has been seeking a buyer for its business and targeting a price between $750 million and $1 billion, sources say - Bloomberg

AI startup Humane has been seeking a buyer for its business and targeting a price between $750 million and $1 billion, sources say - Bloomberg

Humane, an enigmatic AI startup founded by ex-Apple design and engineering team members Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno, is reportedly seeking a buyer between $750 million and $1 billion [1]. This secretive company, which has raised a total of $230 million from renowned investors such as Kindred Ventures, Microsoft, and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman [1], is generating buzz with its ambitious plans to create a revolutionary integrated device and cloud services platform for artificial intelligence (AI).

Although Humane's work is shrouded in mystery, its latest Series C funding round attracted a notable list of investors, including SK Networks, LG Technology Ventures, and Tiger Global [1]. The startup's patents and hiring history provide some clues to its potential offerings.

Humane's 2020 patent application for a body-worn device with a laser projection system [2] suggests that the company is working on developing AR glasses that can identify real-world objects and apply digital imagery to them. Additionally, Humane's hiring history reveals that the startup was hiring Android developers for apps related to personal live broadcasting, senior monitoring, memory recall, and personal guiding [2].

Humane's strategic partnerships with Microsoft, SK Networks, LG, and Volvo Cars also offer some insight into the company's future plans. Microsoft is providing cloud processing power, while SK Networks is handling distribution. LG is working with Humane on R&D projects for the next phase of its product lifecycle and adapting Humane's technology for smart home devices. Volvo is collaborating with Humane on a potential automotive industry offering [1].

Despite the excitement surrounding Humane, the company is tight-lipped about its plans. Imran Chaudhri, co-founder, and CEO, has emphasized Humane's investment in AI and its commitment to "trust and privacy from day zero" [1]. With its innovative technology and strategic partnerships, Humane is poised to make a significant impact on the AI industry.

References:
[1] TechCrunch. (2023, March 8). Humane, the secretive AI startup founded by ex-Apple employees, raises another $100m. Retrieved from https://techcrunch.com/2023/03/08/humane-the-secretive-ai-startup-founded-by-ex-apple-employees-raises-another-100m/
[2] 9to5Google. (2020, June 11). Humane, the secretive startup co-founded by ex-Apple designers, files for a patent on an AR headset. Retrieved from https://9to5google.com/2020/06/11/humane-ar-headset-patent/