On January 30, 2026, Apple finalized its acquisition of the Israeli AI startup Q.ai, in a deal valued at nearly $2 billion. Established in 2022, Q.ai has carved out a niche in image processing and machine learning, with a particular focus on pioneering technologies. These innovations empower devices to discern whispers, amplify audio clarity in bustling settings, and interpret silent communication through the analysis of facial muscle movements. It is anticipated that these advancements will significantly enhance Apple's audio offerings, AI functionalities such as Siri, and applications including FaceTime, smart glasses, and head-mounted displays. This move represents one of Apple's few significant mergers and acquisitions in recent memory, underscoring its commitment to fortifying its competitive edge in the realm of next-generation computing platforms.
