German artificial intelligence translation company DeepL has announced the acquisition of Mixhalo, a US-based startup specialising in real-time audio technology for live events. This strategic move is set to significantly enhance DeepL's offerings in simultaneous translation for conferences, sports, and other large gatherings, addressing the long-standing challenge of multilingual communication in such environments. The acquisition also marks a notable expansion for DeepL, as it plans to open a new office in San Francisco, bolstering its footprint in the crucial US market.
Mixhalo, founded in 2016 by Incubus guitarist and songwriter Mike Einziger, violinist Ann Marie Simpson-Einziger, and Vik Singh, initially aimed to improve the audio experience for concert-goers. Over time, its platform evolved to provide real-time audio solutions for a broader range of live events, including sports. The company successfully raised over $39 million in capital from investors such as Fortress Investment, Founders Fund, Defy Partners, and Cowboy Ventures, demonstrating investor confidence in its innovative approach to audio streaming.
The integration of Mixhalo's technology is expected to allow DeepL to offer seamless, real-time audio translation directly to attendees' devices, eliminating the need for often ineffective attempts to use generic translation apps from a distance. DeepL has already been a primary translation provider for Mixhalo, making the acquisition a natural progression for both companies. According to Mixhalo's CEO, Vik Singh, discussions between the two firms evolved organically, highlighting a clear synergy in their respective technologies and market ambitions.
This acquisition follows DeepL's recent advancements in voice AI. In 2024, the company launched voice-to-text translation capabilities supporting over 33 languages, and in April, it introduced a voice-to-voice translation suite designed for multilingual meetings. The addition of Mixhalo's expertise is anticipated to propel DeepL into the live event sector with these sophisticated voice translation tools, showcasing its technology in dynamic, real-world settings like conferences.
For UK businesses and professionals operating internationally, particularly those involved in global conferences, trade shows, or corporate events, this development could lead to more accessible and inclusive communication. The enhanced ability to offer real-time, high-quality translation services may foster greater collaboration and understanding across language barriers, potentially boosting international trade and partnerships. While the immediate economic impact on UK households might be indirect, improved global communication infrastructure can contribute to a more interconnected and efficient global economy, which ultimately benefits UK-based organisations and their employees.
DeepL CEO Jarek Kutylowski stated that Mixhalo will serve as both a solution and a marketing showcase, demonstrating DeepL's capabilities in real-time, on-the-ground environments. The establishment of a new San Francisco office underlines DeepL's commitment to expanding its US operations, positioning it to compete more directly with other players in the real-time audio and translation space, such as Wordly AI and Palabra.
Source: TechCrunch