Anyvision Raises $235M in Funding - Softbank & Eldridge Lead

The Complex World of Facial Recognition and AnyVision's Funding

Facial recognition technology, a subset of artificial intelligence utilizing computer vision, has sparked considerable debate. Concerns surrounding privacy, data security, and ethical considerations have been raised regarding its implementation and purpose. Despite these challenges, the technology is experiencing widespread adoption across diverse applications.

Recently, AnyVision, an Israeli startup specializing in AI-driven facial identification and related technologies like temperature screening, secured $235 million in new funding.

Details of the Funding Round

This Series C funding round was jointly led by SoftBank’s Vision Fund 2 and Eldridge, with participation from existing investors including Robert Bosch GmbH, Qualcomm Ventures, and Lightspeed. While the company’s valuation remains undisclosed, it represents a significant increase from its previous funding of approximately $116 million, garnered since its last funding round in 2020.

Notably, AnyVision’s CEO, Avi Golan, previously held a position as an operating partner at SoftBank’s investment division.

Focus of the New Investment

The newly acquired funds will be allocated towards the continued development of AnyVision’s Software Development Kits (SDKs). A key focus will be adapting these SDKs for use in edge computing devices – including smart cameras, body-worn cameras, and specialized chips – to enhance system performance and processing speed.

AnyVision’s technology is currently deployed in video surveillance systems, watchlist alerts, and crowd monitoring applications. These applications include tracking visitor numbers, analyzing customer behavior in retail spaces, and identifying potentially illegal or hazardous activities.

“AnyVision’s innovations in Recognition AI helped transform passive cameras into proactive security systems and empowered organizations take a more holistic view to advanced security threats,” stated Golan. “The Access Point AI platform is designed to protect people, places, and privacy while simultaneously reducing costs, power, bandwidth, and operational complexity.”

Past Controversies and Current Scrutiny

AnyVision has faced significant public scrutiny, stemming from allegations in 2019 that its technology was utilized by the Israeli government for surveillance of Palestinians in the West Bank.

The company refuted these claims, but the incident severely damaged its reputation and intensified broader examination of facial recognition technology. This led to Microsoft, an earlier investor through its M12 venture arm, conducting a thorough audit of its investment and ultimately divesting its stake, along with a commitment to refrain from similar investments.

Since then, AnyVision has actively sought to position itself as an ethical leader within the industry, acknowledging the need for improvement and addressing shortcomings in the wider facial recognition market. However, controversies have persisted.

Recent Reports and Client Base

A Reuters report in April of this year revealed a diverse client base for AnyVision, including hospitals like Cedars Sinai, major retailers such as Macy’s, and energy company BP. Furthermore, the report highlighted connections between AnyVision and prominent political figures, including Jen Psaki, the White House Press Secretary, who previously served as a communications consultant for the startup.

A recent investigation by The Markup, published just yesterday, analyzed public records and a 2019 user guidebook, revealing the extent of data collection capabilities and ongoing projects. This included a pilot program involving the tracking of students in a Texas school district, where 5,000 student photos were collected and over 164,000 detections were performed within a single week.

Potential Benefits and Broader Industry Context

Despite the controversies, AnyVision’s technology offers potential benefits in certain scenarios. For example, its temperature detection capabilities could aid in controlling the spread of infectious diseases like Covid-19, particularly at large events.

It’s important to note that AnyVision is not alone in developing and deploying this technology. Clearview AI, a U.S. company used by numerous governments and law enforcement agencies, was recently deemed “illegal” by Canadian privacy authorities.

Looking Ahead

The future of facial recognition technology remains uncertain, with ongoing debates surrounding its development, implementation, and public perception. AnyVision’s ability to attract investment from SoftBank, despite the controversies, suggests a belief in the technology’s potential.

“The visual recognition market is nascent but has large potential in the Western world,” stated Anthony Doeh, a partner for SoftBank Investment Advisers. “We have witnessed the transformative power of AI, biometrics and edge computing in other categories, and believe AnyVision is uniquely placed to redefine physical environment analytics across numerous industries.”