Amazon has acquired text-to-speech technology provider Ivona Software for an undisclosed amount, broadening its in-house capabilities as the Internet retailer continues to push its tablet business. The two companies have collaborated in the past, Amazon noted, with Ivona’s technology powering the text-to speech, voice guide, and explore by touch features on Kindle Fire tablets. In addition, Ivona delivers text-to-speech products and services to thousands of developers, businesses, and customers around the world. It offers voice and language portfolios with 44 voices in 17 languages, and it’s developing even more. Amazon has been expanding its tablet business to take on companies such as Apple, Barnes & Noble, and even Google, whose Android software it uses. Unlike some of its rivals, Amazon has kept the prices of its hardware low in order to attract more buyers.
About Shelly Palmer
Shelly Palmer is the Professor of Advanced Media in Residence at Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and CEO of The Palmer Group, a consulting practice that helps Fortune 500 companies with technology, media and marketing. Named LinkedIn’s “Top Voice in Technology,” he covers tech and business for Good Day New York, is a regular commentator on CNN and writes a popular daily business blog. He's a bestselling author, and the creator of the popular, free online course, Generative AI for Execs. Follow @shellypalmer or visit shellypalmer.com.