Samsung Electronics has announced its acquisition of Oxford Semantic Technologies, a UK-based startup specialising in knowledge graph technology.

The move is set to bolster Samsung's artificial intelligence capabilities and deliver more personalised experiences across its range of products.

Oxford Semantic Technologies, founded in 2017 by three Oxford University professors, has developed cutting-edge technology in knowledge representation and semantic reasoning. The company’s flagship product, RDFox, is an AI-centric engine that optimises data processing and enables advanced reasoning both in the cloud and on devices.

Knowledge graph technology stores information as an interconnected web of related ideas, mirroring how humans acquire, remember and reason over knowledge. This approach enhances understanding of product usage and enables rapid information retrieval and recommendations, making it a key component in creating sophisticated AI solutions.

Samsung has been collaborating with Oxford Semantic Technologies since 2018, including investment through Samsung Ventures. Samsung said that the acquisition will secure advanced core engines for personal knowledge graphs, allowing it to offer tailor-made user experiences by integrating information and context from various services and apps.

Paul Kyungwhoon Cheun, head of Samsung Research and chief technology officer of Samsung Electronics, stated: "This acquisition is another important step forward as we strive to deliver tailor-made AI experiences built upon our hallmark technological innovation."

The technology is expected to be applicable across Samsung's product range, including mobile devices, televisions, and home appliances. When combined with on-device AI technology, such as that found in Samsung's Galaxy S24 smartphones, it promises to facilitate hyper-personalised user experiences while ensuring sensitive personal data remains secure on the device.

Peter Crocker, chief executive officer of Oxford Semantic Technologies, expressed enthusiasm for the merger, saying: "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."

The financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

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