Google seems to have acquired U.K. startup Redux, which primarily focuses on technology that converts surfaces like phone displays into speakers. The startup took to its website (now defunct) to announce that it has also developed technology which eliminates the need for small speakers in mobile phones, freeing up space for batteries or other components.
One cannot be sure about when Alphabet Inc. through a subsidiary of Google, acquired Redux, but the transfer of Redux's shares to the U.S. tech giant was confirmed in December 2017.
According to a report by Bloomberg Technology, Google's spokesperson has declined to comment on a purchase price or other details of the acquisition. Backed by investors, Redux had raised $5 million in March 2017 and concentrated on markets including computing, mobile, automotive and industrial controls.
Alphabet's main Google division started selling its own smartphones in 2016, so new engineering talent from Redux may help the company to enhance the sound output of its handsets. Also, Google could also develop haptic feedback, which gives the sense of touch on a surface such as a screen.
