Continuing to expand its ultrasound AI capabilities, GE HealthCare has signed an agreement to acquire Wales-based Intelligent Ultrasound Group's clinical AI software business for total consideration of approximately $51 million (€47 million).
Intelligent Ultrasound's offerings include the ScanNav Assist AI technology, which is currently being used to power SonoLystlive real-time image acquisition software and SonoLyst X/IR image analysis software on GE HealthCare’s Voluson Expert and Voluson Signature ultrasound devices. SonoLyst is also available on Voluson Swift. With the deal, GE HealthCare will incorporate Intelligent Ultrasound's AI-based image analysis tools across its ultrasound product line.
Research and development staff from Intelligent Ultrasound are expected to join GE HealthCare and will help develop AI-enabled image recognition software for GE HealthCare's Women’s Health ultrasound devices as well as across the broader portfolio, according to the vendors. Intelligent Ultrasound Chief Operating Officer Nick Sleep will also come over to GE HealthCare.
This agreement follows GE HealthCare’s acquisition of Caption Health in 2023, which added AI-based ultrasound image guidance technology and AI development personnel to aid in early disease detection in other areas, according to the vendor. With the sale of its clinical AI business, Intelligent Ultrasound said it will focus on its ultrasound simulation technology for ultrasound education.
GE HealthCare said the transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2024.
