- Samsung Medison acquires Sonio, a French AI ultrasound startup, for $92.7 million.
- Sonio’s AI assistant aids obstetricians and gynecologists in ultrasound exams.
- Sonio’s Sonio Detect product improves ultrasound image quality in real time, with FDA clearance.
- Acquisition aims to enhance AI-driven imaging workflows and prenatal ultrasound exams.
- Sonio to remain independent, continuing operations in France.
- Sonio, founded in 2020, raised $27.2 million in funding, showing growth potential.
- CEOs of both companies express excitement about the strategic partnership.
Main AI News:
In a strategic move to enhance its position in the healthcare AI market, Samsung Medison, a leading medical device unit of Samsung Electronics, has announced its acquisition of Sonio, a pioneering French startup specializing in AI-powered ultrasound software. The deal, valued at $92.7 million, underscores Samsung Medison’s commitment to advancing diagnostic imaging technologies.
Sonio, based in Paris, has developed an innovative AI assistant designed to assist obstetricians and gynecologists in evaluating and documenting ultrasound examinations. With regulatory clearance from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA 510(k)) for its Sonio Detect product, which utilizes deep learning algorithms to enhance ultrasound image quality in real-time, Sonio has garnered attention for its cutting-edge solutions.
By integrating Sonio’s software into its portfolio, Samsung Medison aims to revolutionize AI-driven imaging workflows. This strategic partnership is poised to bring forth a new era of prenatal ultrasound examinations, offering enhanced accuracy and efficiency to healthcare professionals worldwide.
Following the acquisition, Sonio will maintain its autonomy as an independent entity, continuing to operate and expand its offerings in France. This approach ensures continuity in Sonio’s growth trajectory while leveraging Samsung Medison’s global presence and resources.
Founded in 2020 by Cecile Brosset and Remi Besson, Sonio has already made significant strides in the industry. With a recent Series A funding round securing $14 million led by Cross Border Impact Ventures, and a total investment of $27.2 million, Sonio has demonstrated its potential for growth and innovation.
Yong Kwan Kim, CEO of Samsung Medison, emphasized the strategic importance of the acquisition, stating, “Through the acquisition of Sonio, Samsung Medison will continue to deliver upon our promise to improve the quality of people’s lives with technology.” This sentiment underscores the shared vision of both companies in leveraging technology to enhance healthcare outcomes.
Cecile Brosset, CEO of Sonio, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the synergies between Samsung Medison’s global presence and Sonio’s advanced AI technology. “Samsung Medison’s established global ultrasound business combined with Sonio’s advanced AI creates an exciting growth opportunity for both sides,” said Brosset. “As an independent company, Sonio remains committed to advancing medical reporting technology and diagnostic software globally.”
Conclusion:
Samsung Medison’s acquisition of Sonio represents a strategic move to strengthen its position in the healthcare AI market. By integrating Sonio’s advanced AI technology into its portfolio, Samsung Medison aims to lead the way in enhancing diagnostic imaging workflows and improving prenatal ultrasound examinations. This partnership is likely to stimulate further innovation in the market and drive growth opportunities for both companies.
