Barcelona-based Zhilabs, an AI-based network analytics and customer experience management startup, has been acquired by Samsung Electronics for an undisclosed amount. The acquisition will help Samsung to expand its 5G offerings in automation and network analytics.
In the 5G era, AI-based automation will play a central role in the introduction of new services such as industrial Internet of Things (IoT) and connected cars.
The South Korean electronics giant recently announced plans to invest €19 billion over the next three years in the areas of AI, 5G, automotive electronics components, and biopharmaceuticals.
“5G will enable unprecedented services attributed to the generation of exponential data traffic, for which automated and intelligent network analytics tools are vital,” said Youngky Kim, President and Head of Networks Business at Samsung Electronics. “The acquisition of Zhilabs will help Samsung meet these demands to assure each subscriber receives the best possible service.”
“5G technology will disrupt the communications landscape for the better, but it will only be successful if the quality of the networks transferring the information can be measured and improved to provide a best-in-class experience,” added Joan Raventós, CEO at Zhilabs. “We are delighted to be joining the Samsung Electronics family and adding a contribution with our software products and technology to the existing end-to-end solutions that the company offers its customers.”
Zhilabs, while fully owned by Samsung, will continue to operate independently under its own management.