Medical equipment based in SeoulMedical equipment maker Samsung Medison recently agreed to fully acquire French fetal ultrasound AI company Sonio for 126 billion won ($92 million).
4 year old French starterp has developed IT solutions for obstetrics and gynecology ultrasound examinations, helping medical professionals document and evaluate ultrasound examinations.
Last year, we received US FDA 510(k) clearance for Sonio Detect. Sonio Detect is said to be the first machine-independent AI assistant software to automate ultrasound reports and provide image quality control.
Why is it important?
“Our collaboration with Sonio brings a paradigm shift to prenatal ultrasound by integrating best-in-class ultrasound AI technology and reporting capabilities,” said Yong Kwan Kim, CEO of Samsung Medison.
With the addition of Sonio to its portfolio, Samsung Medison joins a growing list of AI-enabled ultrasound system providers. 2022, ultrasound equipment manufacturer exo We also acquired ultrasound AI provider Medo to provide advanced imaging capabilities. At the beginning of last year GE HealthCare acquires Caption Healtha leading figure in ultrasonic AI.
Upon completion of the transaction, Sonio will remain an independent company based in France.Drive independent commercial growth while maintaining compatibility the Products with any ultrasound equipment system.
“In addition to working closely with Samsung Medison, Sonio as an independent company will continue to advance medical reporting technology and diagnostic software around the world, including in underserved areas of health care.” CEO Cécile Brosset added.
Completion of the transaction between the two companies requires approval from regulatory authorities, including the French Ministry of Economy and Finance.
bigger trends
Sonio first partnered with Samsung in 2021 through Samsung Healthcare France. The partnership between the two companies was aimed at identifying AI solutions for pregnancy monitoring and prenatal diagnostics.
Sonio aims to further expand across Asia, partnering with biotech companies life cell Last year, it was to promote the company's AI products in the Indian market, where about 100 babies are born every two minutes.
Meanwhile, Sonio raised $14 million in Series A funding last year in preparation for a commercial launch in the United States. The funds alsoport We work on research and development to adapt our AI to portable ultrasound devices and point-of-care.