January 6, 2025 /SemiMedia/ — Embedded AI processor and sensor design company Syntiant has announced the completion of its acquisition of Knowles' (Knowles Electronics) consumer MEMS microphone business. The $150 million transaction represents the final step in Knowles’ business restructuring, which was announced in September 2023. The division generated $256 million in revenue in 2023.

This acquisition further strengthens Syntiant’s strategic positioning in the AI audio module sector. Syntiant is dedicated to developing edge AI hardware and software, with its technology supporting voice, audio, sensor, and vision applications across a wide range of consumer and industrial use cases, from headphones to automobiles. To date, over 50 million Syntiant AI processors and hardware-agnostic models have been deployed globally.

By integrating SiSonic MEMS sensors with its existing hardware and software capabilities, Syntiant will offer a complete edge AI audio solution. This integration will streamline product development, accelerate time-to-market, and ensure scalability, security, and flexibility to meet diverse application needs.

Syntiant CEO Kurt Busch commented, "With the acquisition of Knowles' CMM business, Syntiant has secured a leadership position in the rapidly growing MEMS microphone market while launching new solutions that combine cutting-edge sensors, processors, and high-performance machine learning models to redefine AI-powered audio and voice interfaces."

Busch also noted, "As large language models continue to drive advancements in natural language understanding and automation, we are accelerating the development of next-generation solutions for autonomous vehicles, smart home devices, and industrial automation. This acquisition not only brings valuable talent and global customer relationships to Syntiant, but it also strengthens our ability to innovate and expand globally."

The acquisition was financed by Khazanah Nasional Berhad and Boardman Bay Capital Management, with Boardman Bay providing equity financing and Structural Capital arranging debt financing.

Khazanah Managing Director Dato' Amirul Feisal Wan Zahir said, "The global supply chain shifts and the rise of artificial intelligence technologies have created significant opportunities for Malaysia in the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing sectors. We support Syntiant's vision for developing Malaysia's semiconductor ecosystem, and this acquisition aligns with our goals to drive regional technological advancement and economic development."

Boardman Bay Chief Investment Officer Will Graves commented, "We believe this acquisition is a pivotal milestone for Syntiant's innovation in smart voice and audio solutions. Kurt and his team have demonstrated a bold vision to lead the future of edge AI, and we have full confidence in their ability to drive the next phase of growth."

Structural Capital Chief Investment Officer Kai Tse added, "Syntiant's commitment to innovation aligns perfectly with our mission. We believe this transaction will accelerate their growth, further solidify their market position, and enhance their ability to deliver transformative solutions across multiple industries."