Apple has acquired Israeli audio AI startup Q.ai in a deal reportedly worth around $2 billion. If the figure is accurate, this would become Apple’s second-largest acquisition ever, after its purchase of Beats. Apple has not officially disclosed the deal value.
Q.ai is a relatively new and secretive startup that is working on artificial intelligence for audio. The company works on machine learning systems that help devices understand whispered or very low-volume speech. Its technology also aims to improve audio clarity in noisy or difficult environments.
The startup has drawn attention for its advanced research. In 2025, Q.ai filed a patent that describes using facial skin micromovements to detect spoken or mouthed words. The same technology could also be used to identify individuals and estimate emotional state or heart rate. This suggests that Q.ai is exploring new ways for devices to understand users without relying only on voice commands.
All of Q.ai’s employees, around 100 people, will join Apple as part of the acquisition. This includes CEO Aviad Maizels and co-founders Yonatan Wexler and Avi Barliya. Maizels is not new to Apple. He previously founded PrimeSense, an Israeli company Apple acquired in 2013. PrimeSense technology later became a key part of Face ID on the iPhone.
Apple has not shared specific details on how it plans to use Q.ai’s technology. However, the acquisition fits well with Apple’s growing focus on artificial intelligence, audio, and on-device processing. The company has been investing heavily in AI features across iPhone, AirPods, Apple Watch, and its mixed reality products.
There is speculation that Q.ai’s work could improve future versions of Siri, especially in understanding speech in private or noisy situations. The technology could also play a role in wearables, allowing users to interact with devices through subtle speech or even silent commands. Some observers believe this could be important for future products like smart glasses or next-generation AirPods.
From an industry point of view, the deal shows that Apple is willing to spend big to strengthen its AI capabilities. While Apple has traditionally focused on privacy-friendly, on-device intelligence, it has faced criticism for moving slower than rivals in some AI areas. Acquiring Q.ai may help close that gap, particularly in audio intelligence and human-device interaction.
