Google Nears $115 Million Deal for Eye-Tracking Firm

Google is reportedly in the final stages of acquiring AdHawk Microsystems, a Canadian startup specializing in eye-tracking technology, for $115 million. This acquisition is part of Google’s renewed focus on developing headsets and smart glasses. The deal, which includes performance-based future payments, is expected to be finalized this week, although it remains subject to completion.

Details of the Acquisition

According to sources familiar with the negotiations, Google plans to pay $115 million for AdHawk Microsystems, which includes $15 million contingent on the startup meeting specific performance targets. The acquisition is anticipated to close within the week, but there is still a possibility that the talks could collapse before the agreement is officially signed. Neither Google nor AdHawk has publicly commented on the ongoing discussions. Founded in 2017, AdHawk has developed innovative chips, hardware, and software that enable advanced eye-tracking capabilities. The company, based in Waterloo, Ontario, has created a product called MindLink, which allows manufacturers to integrate eye-tracking technology into their devices. AdHawk’s technology is distinguished by its low-power components, which can analyze users’ corneas and pupils more quickly than competing sensors.

Market Context and Previous Interest

AdHawk has been a player in the eye-tracking market for several years. In 2022, it attracted attention from Meta, which considered acquiring the startup. AdHawk has received backing from prominent venture arms, including those of Samsung Electronics, Intel, HP, and Sony. Additionally, EssilorLuxottica, the owner of Ray-Ban and a partner of Meta in smart glasses, is also an investor in AdHawk. Eye-tracking technology is increasingly essential for augmented and virtual reality headsets. It plays a crucial role in Apple’s Vision Pro interface and will be a key feature in Samsung’s upcoming Moohan headset, which is being developed in collaboration with Google. The now-discontinued Meta Quest Pro also relied on eye-tracking technology.

Google’s Vision for Smart Glasses

Google was an early innovator in smart glasses, launching Google Glass over a decade ago. However, the product did not achieve commercial success and was discontinued two years ago. Since then, Google has expressed interest in re-entering the smart glasses market, particularly with advancements in artificial intelligence. The company has been testing new prototypes and collaborating with Samsung to develop innovative designs.

In December, Google unveiled Android XR, an operating system designed for the Samsung headset and other potential devices. This software includes frameworks that developers can use to incorporate eye-tracking support into their applications. Following the acquisition of AdHawk, its team is expected to join Google’s Android XR group, enhancing the company’s capabilities in the realm of headsets and smart glasses. Earlier this year, Google also acquired a portion of HTC’s XR division for $250 million, further bolstering its engineering resources and intellectual property in this space.

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