Google acquires AI voice startup Hume AI's core team in reported talent deal

Another promising AI startup's key talent has been acquired by an industry giant. According to Wired, Google DeepMind is welcoming the CEO and several lead engineers from voice AI company Hume AI through a new licensing arrangement.

Hume AI will continue operating and providing its technology to other AI companies. The financial terms of the agreement remain undisclosed.

TechCrunch has contacted both Google and Hume AI for confirmation.

Wired reports that CEO Alan Cowen and approximately seven engineers will join DeepMind to enhance Gemini's voice capabilities.

This talent acquisition represents the latest instance of major AI companies securing top industry professionals while avoiding regulatory oversight by hiring startup teams rather than purchasing entire companies. Last year, Google recruited the CEO and key researchers from viral AI coding startup Windsurf, while OpenAI has absorbed multiple startup teams in recent months, including Convogo and Roi. The Federal Trade Commission has announced increased scrutiny of such arrangements.

The agreement also signals voice technology's emergence as the next competitive frontier in artificial intelligence.

Hume AI's distinctive advantage lies in its model's capacity to interpret user emotions and mood through vocal analysis. The startup launched its Empathetic Voice Interface in 2024, featuring a conversational AI with emotional awareness. According to PitchBook, Hume AI has secured nearly $80 million in funding and expects to generate $100 million in revenue this year, as reported by Wired.

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However, Hume AI isn't alone in developing voice-centric models. Google has consistently enhanced its Gemini Live feature, enabling users to engage in conversations with the chatbot. Last month, the company introduced a new native audio model for the Live API that improved the system's capacity to manage complex workflows, according to Gemini API release notes.

Other industry players are also making substantial investments in voice technology. OpenAI is reportedly revamping its audio models in preparation for an audio-focused personal device developed with Jonny Ive's io, scheduled for release this year. Recent leaks indicate the device may take the form of earbuds.

Meta advanced its AI audio initiatives last year by acquiring startup Play AI. The company's Ray-Ban smart glasses increasingly utilize voice and audio features for functions such as enhancing conversation clarity in noisy environments and enabling hands-free management of calls, messages, music, and photographs.

"Voice represents the only practical input method for wearable technology," investor Vanessa Larco explained to TechCrunch. "This acquisition will accelerate demand for voice-enabled applications."

Market demand for voice capabilities continues to expand. Earlier this month, AI voice generation startup ElevenLabs reported exceeding $330 million in annual recurring revenue.