Microsoft buys into Canada's AI research with purchase of Maluuba

Microsoft Corp. is buying into Canada's artificial intelligence research community with a deal to purchase Maluuba, a deep-learning and AI– technology startup based in Waterloo, Ont., and Montreal. The company, founded in 2011 by two University of Waterloo grads, focuses on teaching machines to read like a human brain – a massive computer science challenge that has bedevilled researchers for decades. Early on, the company also developed language-recognition software for voice assistants in smartphones and cars. The company raised $9-million in venture funding in January, 2016, but neither company released details Friday about the sale price. "Microsoft representatives met with Maluuba employees earlier today in both Waterloo and Montreal. We are currently working on integration plans and expect most, if not all, employees will join Microsoft."