Samsung acquired French prenatal-ultrasound AI startup Sonio after a second FDA clearance

Sonio makes AI-powered reporting and workflow software for obstetrics and gynaecology ultrasound exams.

That adding Sonio's AI exam guidance to Samsung's ultrasound roadmap gives Samsung Medison next-generation AI while Sonio stays device-neutral.

Sonio was established in 2020 to improve women's and children's health through medical advances. Backed by Elaia, Bpifrance, OneRagtime, Cross Border Impact Ventures and the EIC Fund, it built a reporting and workflow product, based on over five years of research with fetal medicine and AI experts.

In 2024 Sonio received a second wave of FDA clearance and had its reporting and workflow solution operating at multiple US sites. The French Ministry of the Economy and Finance then approved the acquisition of 100% of its shares by Samsung. Terms were not given. Sonio says it will keep growing independently and build products compatible with all ultrasound manufacturers.

Healthcare workforce shortages raise the value of real-time ultrasound exam guidance.

Sonio had won a second wave of FDA clearance in 2024 and operated at multiple US sites.

Samsung wants next-generation AI in its ultrasound roadmap.

Sonio keeps its independence so it can sell to users of all ultrasound devices.

A hardware maker can buy a software startup for its AI while promising to keep it compatible with competitors' devices, to retain customers.

As of 2024-09-02 the French government had approved Samsung's acquisition of all of Sonio; financial terms were not disclosed.