Speaktoit, a US-based developer of human-computer interaction technologies and creator of the Speaktoit Assistant app, has received investments from Intel Capital, Intel’s global investment organization, and the Alpine Technology Fund, a strategic investment arm of Alpine Electronics. The funding will support Speaktoit’s acceleration of the development of its platform for allowing clients to add natural language virtual assistant capabilities to applications, gadgets, cars, robots, and wearable technology.
Previously, Intel invested an undisclosed amount in Speaktoit in May 2012.
Sanjay Vora, head of Strategic Planning for Intel’s PC Client Group, said: “Our relationship with Speaktoit is a good example of Intel working closely with leading industry players to enable next generation, natural user experiences with Intel devices.”
“We are very excited about this opportunity and look forward to future collaborations between Speaktoit and Alpine Electronics,” said Koichiro Kanda, managing director of Alpine Technology Fund. “We firmly believe in the balance between driver safety and a quality in-vehicle experience.”
Ilya Gelfenbeyn, chief executive officer of Speaktoit, said: “Speaktoit firmly believes in the future of cross-platform virtual assistants that enhance the efficiency of its users’ lives. What has begun with smartphones over the past three years will soon touch many areas of our lives, including our cars and our homes. Intel Capital and Alpine Technology Fund are the perfect partners for Speaktoit’s continued technological advancements in human-computer interaction technology.”