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Nortek acquires voice command technology
Nortek has acquired a next-generation natural language processing platform that facilitates sophisticated voice control across home automation and other applications.
May 31, 2016 By SP&T Staff
The technology Norteck acquired, called Nuiku, is a robust, data-driven platform and Cloud-based application program interface (API) that enables seamless natural language processing (NLP) across applications and devices.
Nuiku’s patented integration engine connects voice commands with back-end user information to analyze commands and perform actions based on requests. The smart technology adapts to user behavior, prompting, reminding and suggesting actions to them based on frequency of use and historical actions.
“Nuiku is a leader in natural language processing and a terrific addition to our home automation capabilities,” said president and CEO Michael J. Clarke. “The acquisition of the Nuiku technology adds key software capabilities to our portfolio of technology solutions, as well as seasoned engineers that are aligned with our focus of driving innovation across our businesses. We believe this acquisition will result in new, innovative combinations of our products that advance our position in the markets we serve.”
In conjunction with the acquisition of Nuiku, Nortek has launched a technology incubation team, responsible for bringing together engineering activities from across Nortek to qualify and develop value-added customer solutions.
“The establishment of the Nortek technology incubation team is reflective of our commitment to supporting innovation as a strategic growth driver across our business,” added Clarke. “Our first projects will focus on technologies for the connected home and personal safety markets, and we’re excited about the opportunity to leverage our brands including 2GIG, NuTone and Elan, as well as our channel relationships that serve security dealers, AV installers, electricians, HVAC contractors and homebuilders.”
The initial four person team will be led by Tim Smokoff, vice-president, technology incubation. Smokoff brings significant experience in the health information systems and medical device markets, most recently serving as CEO of Numera, and previously as general manager of Microsoft’s World Wide Health Industry Solutions Group.
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