The financial terms were not disclosed, and Apple did not specify how it plans to use Q.ai’s technology. However, Western media outlets estimate the deal values the startup at nearly $2 billion.

Q.ai focuses on new machine learning approaches, including whisper recognition: its software analyzes facial muscle movements while a person speaks. The company also works on audio enhancement in difficult acoustic environments. According to Q.ai’s website, its investors include Google Ventures, Spark Capital (known for investments in Twitter, Discord, and Anthropic), and Kleiner Perkins (with portfolio ties including Airbnb and Amazon).

Q.ai’s technology could potentially be applied to FaceTime, as well as devices such as smart glasses or headsets. Its capabilities may also support better sound performance in AirPods, especially in noisy settings. Q.ai’s founding team is expected to join Apple as part of the deal.

Apple is not known for frequent large acquisitions, typically favoring smaller purchases of products or teams that can be integrated into new in-house features.

Conclusion: If Apple integrates Q.ai’s silent-speech and audio ML into FaceTime, wearables, or AirPods, it could materially improve communication in noisy environments—and lay groundwork for more natural, hands-free interaction in future Apple devices.