Gurugram-based audio products and wearables firm Noise has acquired SocialBoat, an AI startup, to bolster the AI-powered fitness and wellness features on its wearable devices. This strategic acquisition aligns with Noise’s objective to innovate health-specific technology for its Luna smart ring.
Founded in 2022, SocialBoat leverages AI to address health challenges such as menstrual health, PCOS, and thyroid disorders.
The startup had raised $200,000 in an angel funding round led by Plan B Capital and other angel investors. SocialBoat utilized OpenAI’s GPT technology to develop Sakhi, an AI chatbot designed to provide health and hygiene solutions for women.
Swapnil Vats, co-founder and CEO of SocialBoat, will join Noise’s innovation team to lead the development of the Luna Ring.
Vats’ expertise in AI for wellness will be instrumental in enhancing the Luna Ring’s advanced health and fitness metrics. Luna AI, powered by large language models like OpenAI’s GPT-4, is trained on a vast dataset from over 20 million Noise users and more than 1 billion lines of data.
“We are confident that this strategic acquisition will drive innovation in the Luna Ring. Our goal with the Luna Ring is to significantly transform people’s lives and sustain the Luna ecosystem. We recently introduced AI to the Luna Ring, making us the first brand to enable smart rings with AI, and we will continue to take steps to enhance the overall smart wearable experience,” said Amit Khatri, co-founder of Noise.
The Luna Ring, equipped with AI, can track and analyze over 70 biomarkers throughout the day, offering advice akin to a fitness coach and analyst as needed. This capability underscores Noise’s commitment to providing cutting-edge health and fitness solutions.
Noise, established in 2014 by Amit Khatri and Gaurav Khatri, initially sold smartphone cases and accessories before expanding into smart wearables and wireless headphones. The company competes with Indian brands like boAt and various international audio and wearables companies.
Despite the promising developments, Noise reported a significant drop in net profit, recording INR 88 lakh in FY23, down from INR 35 crore in the previous fiscal year, primarily due to a sharp increase in expenses.
This acquisition marks a crucial step in Noise’s journey to integrate AI deeply into its product offerings, aiming to elevate the smart wearable experience and provide users with sophisticated health and wellness tools.
