Samsung has acquired Oxford Semantic Technologies, a UK-based startup that specialises in knowledge graph technology. OST was founded in 2017 by a team of Oxford University professors, specialising in the creation of knowledge graphs and reasoning technology. This type of AI focuses on logical decision-making and can understand complex datasets, providing clear and explainable conclusions. Samsung aims to incorporate OST’s RDFox® technology into their devices, ranging from smartphones to home appliances.
Oxford Semantic Technologies created RDFox to commercialise the research done in knowledge representation and reasoning. Their technology allows for sophisticated AI applications that require high levels of accuracy and the ability to reason over large data sets.
What is RDFox?
RDFox is a high-performance software tool designed to create and manage knowledge graphs and perform semantic reasoning. A knowledge graph is essentially a way to store data in a form that resembles how humans naturally think and reason, linking related concepts together. RDFox uses this way to pick up new information based on the data it holds, using logic in the way that a human would.
How Does RDFox Work?
RDFox works by using a method known as semantic reasoning, which means it can understand and process data in a way that mimics human reasoning. It does this through a set of rules that determine how data points relate to one another.
RDFox is great mainly because it performs incremental reasoning updating its knowledge graph in real-time as new data comes in, without the need to restart or reload the entire graph. This makes it incredibly fast and capable of handling large volumes of data efficiently.
How Can This Tech Be Used?
OST’s technology can be used in different industries such as finance, manufacturing, and e-commerce. In finance, OST’s systems can autonomously work with and on complex decision making processes to monitor transactions and maintain compliance from a regulations perspective. Peter Crocker, CEO of Oxford Semantic Technologies shared his excitement about the partnership in aa newsroom release while explaining the technology behind the startup. He believes this will lead to improved customisation for consumers.
He said, “We are delighted to be working with Samsung. By integrating Samsung’s expertise in user experience and data with our advanced knowledge graph and reasoning technology, we will provide Samsung’s customers with even more sophisticated personalisation.
“In addition, developing RDFox® to support AI applications with Samsung, and being part of the larger group, will provide all of our clients with an even better product, service and support. We are grateful for our partnership with Oxford University Innovation and look forward to continued collaboration with the University of Oxford.”
What Is The Purpose For This Partnership?
We know that Samsung has been actively pushing to place themselves as a top smartphone option, competing with giants like Apple and now Huawei, and this can be seen with their latest ventures into AI. They recently announced Galaxy AI, as well as their Smart Ring and Watch collections. These all use tech that makes AI a useful tool for personal assistance, tracking of data such as health conditions, and so much more.
Samsung buying the startup is to make sure these new AI devices are their most accurate and relevant to each user. OST’s technology means Samsung can deliver smarter recommendations and services overall. “As global consumers realise their growing need for more personalised AI experiences, the acquisition of Oxford Semantic Technologies will further boost Samsung’s strong capabilities in knowledge engineering. This acquisition is another important step forward as we strive to deliver tailor-made AI experiences built upon our hallmark technological innovation,” said Paul Kyungwhoon Cheun, Head of Samsung Research and CTO of Samsung Electronics.
