DeepL acquires Mixhalo for live-event audio streaming and translation

In an era where multilingual communication is vital, especially at conferences, DeepL is set to revolutionize the translation experience by acquiring Mixhalo, a startup that specializes in real-time audio streaming. This partnership aims to enhance the way attendees engage with speakers who present in unfamiliar languages, eliminating the need for inefficient translation apps. Founded in 2016 by Incubus guitarist Mike Einziger, violinist Ann Marie Simpson-Einziger, and CEO Vik Singh, Mixhalo initially focused on enriching concert audio experiences. However, the company has evolved to provide real-time audio solutions for various live events and sports. With over $39 million raised from notable investors like Fortress Investment and Founders Fund, Mixhalo has established itself as a key player in the audio tech landscape. According to Singh, the growing landscape of voice AI technologies could impact Mixhalo’s competitive edge, particularly as larger companies enter the market. However, the acquisition discussions with DeepL were driven by a long-standing relationship, as Mixhalo has already relied on DeepL for translation services. Singh recounted a serendipitous dinner with DeepL’s CTO, Sebastian, which sparked conversations about the mutual benefits of collaboration. This partnership aligns perfectly with DeepL’s recent ventures into voice technology. In 2024, DeepL launched voice-to-text translation in over 33 languages, followed by a voice-to-voice translation suite aimed at facilitating multilingual meetings. The acquisition of Mixhalo not only positions DeepL to enter the live event arena but also serves as a practical demonstration of its technology in action. DeepL CEO Jarek Kutylowski emphasized that this collaboration would showcase how DeepL's innovations can enhance real-time communication at events. As part of its expansion strategy, DeepL will establish a new office in San Francisco, further solidifying its presence in the U.S. market. With Mixhalo in the fold, DeepL aims to compete with other industry players like Wordly AI and Palabra, which are also focused on real-time translation solutions.