superannotate, a computer vision platform, partners with opencv to spread visual ml
SuperAnnotate and OpenCV Collaborate to Democratize Computer Vision
SuperAnnotate, a NoCode computer vision platform, is establishing a partnership with OpenCV, a nonprofit renowned for its extensive library of open-source computer vision algorithms.
This collaboration will empower startups and entrepreneurs to develop custom AI models, enabling cameras to recognize objects through the application of machine learning techniques.
Funding and Investment
To date, SuperAnnotate has secured $3 million in funding from investors including Point Nine Capital, Fathom Capital, and Berkeley SkyDeck Fund.
Expanding Access to Computer Vision Tools
The AI-powered platform, designed for data scientists and annotation teams, will grant users of the OpenCV AI Kit (OAK) access to its capabilities.
Furthermore, SuperAnnotate is introducing a comprehensive computer vision course focused on the construction of AI models.
OAK users will also receive a $200 credit to facilitate the setup and operation of their systems on the SuperAnnotate platform.
OpenCV AI Kit Capabilities
The OAK is a versatile multi-camera system capable of performing complex computer vision and 3D perception tasks.
These tasks include object identification, people counting, and distance measurement.
Since its release, approximately 11,000 of these cameras have been distributed to developers and researchers.
Diverse Applications of the AI Kit
The AI Kit has already been utilized in a wide range of applications, including the development of drones, security systems, and agricultural sensors.
It has even been adapted for COVID-related detection, such as identifying mask compliance.
SuperAnnotate CEO on the Partnership
Tigran Petrosyan, co-founder and CEO of SuperAnnotate, stated: “Computer vision and smart camera applications are rapidly evolving, yet a significant skills gap exists in AI implementation.”
He continued, “With the OAK Kit and SuperAnnotate, building a smart camera system is now achievable, even without prior coding experience.”
Competitive Landscape
Key competitors to SuperAnnotate in the computer vision space include Dataloop, Labelbox, Appen, and Hive.
These companies also offer platforms and tools for data annotation and AI model development.
Mike Butcher
Mike Butcher: A Profile of a Leading Tech Voice
Mike Butcher, M.B.E., is a highly respected figure in the technology landscape. Previously serving as Editor-at-large for TechCrunch, his journalistic background includes contributions to prominent UK newspapers and magazines.
Recognition and Influence
Wired UK has recognized Butcher as one of the most influential individuals shaping European technology. This acknowledgement underscores his significant impact on the sector.
Speaking Engagements and Interviews
Butcher is a sought-after speaker, having presented at prestigious events such as the World Economic Forum, Web Summit, and DLD. He has conducted interviews with a diverse range of prominent figures.
Among those he has interviewed are former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, Russia’s Dmitry Medvedev, actor Kevin Spacey, model Lily Cole, Telegram founder Pavel Durov, and Wikipedia’s Jimmy Wales, alongside numerous other technology executives and celebrities.
Broadcasting and Advisory Roles
As a frequent broadcaster, Mike Butcher regularly appears on major news networks. These include BBC News, Sky News, CNBC, Channel 4, Al Jazeera, and Bloomberg.
His expertise extends to policy advising, having consulted with UK Prime Ministers and the Mayor of London regarding technology startup initiatives. He also served as a judge on the UK edition of The Apprentice.
Awards and Founding Ventures
GQ magazine once listed him among the 100 Most Connected Men in the UK, highlighting his extensive network within the industry.
Butcher is the co-founder of several notable organizations:
- TheEuropas.com: A platform showcasing the Top 100 European startups.
- Techfugees.com: A non-profit organization.
- TechVets.co: Another non-profit initiative.
- Startup Coalition: Focused on supporting startups.
In 2016, he was awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (M.B.E.) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours. This honor recognized his contributions to both the UK technology industry and the field of journalism.