Samsung Acquires Sonio, a Fetal Ultrasound AI Software Firm

Samsung Medison, a medical equipment company and affiliate of Samsung Electronics, has begun an agreement to acquire all the shares of Sonio SAS, a fetal ultrasound artificial intelligence (AI) software company.
 
Sonio was established in 2020 to boost women and children’s health. The company has built IT solutions and AI assistant features for obstetrics and gynecology ultrasound that help evaluate and document ultrasound exams.
 
The FDA 510(k)-cleared AI assistant Sonio Detect uses deep learning networks for higher image quality in real-time. It also aims to improve quality of care through greater clinical accuracy.
 
After the deal is completed, Sonio will stay an independent company headquartered in France and continue commercial growth independently. Products and services will remain compatible with all ultrasound device makers, the company said.
 
The duo hopes to combine Sonio’s AI expertise with Samsung Medison’s ultrasound systems to market breakthrough, AI-enhanced workflows and accelerate innovation in outcomes and quality of prenatal care.
 
“We have great respect and admiration for what the Sonio team has built in the area of maternal care. Through the acquisition of Sonio, Samsung Medison will continue to deliver upon our promise to improve the quality of people’s lives with technology,” said Yong Kwan Kim, Samsung Medison’s CEO. “Collaboration with Sonio will bring together best-in-class ultrasound AI technology and reporting capabilities to bring a paradigm shift in the prenatal ultrasound exam.”
 
“Samsung Medison’s established global ultrasound business combined with Sonio’s advanced AI creates an exciting growth opportunity for both sides,” added Cécile Brosset, Sonio’s CEO. “We have found in Samsung Medison an amazing, trusting partner to pursue and accelerate our roadmap and mission. In addition to close collaboration with Samsung Medison, as an independent company, Sonio will continue to advance medical reporting technology and diagnostic software globally, including for underserved areas in healthcare.”