Another promising AI startup has seen its key personnel absorbed by a larger industry player. Under a new licensing arrangement, Google DeepMind is welcoming the CEO and multiple lead engineers from voice AI company Hume AI. The remaining operations at Hume AI will persist in offering its technology to additional AI firms. Specific financial terms of the agreement have not been disclosed.

CEO Alan Cowen and approximately seven other engineers are set to collaborate with DeepMind to enhance the voice functionalities of the Gemini AI. This move by Hume AI represents the most recent instance of a major AI company acquiring premier talent from the market, a strategy that often avoids regulatory examination by hiring a startup's team instead of purchasing the entire company.

In a similar vein, Google acquired the CEO and top researchers from the viral AI coding startup Windsurf last year. Furthermore, OpenAI has secured several startup teams in recent months, including those from Covogo and Roi. The Federal Trade Commission has recently indicated it will scrutinize such transactions more closely.

This development also underscores that voice interaction is emerging as a significant new domain within artificial intelligence. Hume AI's distinctive strength lies in its model's capacity to interpret a user's emotions and mood through vocal cues. The startup introduced its Empathetic Voice Interface in 2024, which is a conversational AI system designed with emotional intelligence.

To date, Hume AI has secured nearly $80 million in funding, according to PitchBook, and anticipates generating $100 million in revenue this year. However, Hume AI is not alone in focusing on voice-centric models. Google has been progressively refining its Gemini Live feature, enabling users to engage in conversations with its chatbot.

Last month, Google launched a new native audio model for the Live API, which enhanced the model's proficiency in managing complex workflows, as noted in the Gemini API release documentation. Other industry leaders are also making substantial investments in voice technology.

OpenAI is reportedly preparing to upgrade its audio models in anticipation of launching an audio-first personal device this year, developed in collaboration with Jonny Ive's io. Recent leaks suggest this device may take the form of earbuds. Additionally, Meta intensified its focus on AI audio last year by acquiring the startup Play AI.

Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses are increasingly utilizing voice and audio capabilities for functions such as improving conversation clarity in noisy environments and enabling hands-free management of calls, messages, music, and photography. This acquisition is expected to further accelerate the demand for voice-enabled applications.

The market for voice capabilities continues to expand. Earlier this month, AI voice generation startup ElevenLabs reported surpassing $330 million in annual recurring revenue.