The American company TransPerfect, a global provider of linguistic solutions and artificial intelligence (AI) for businesses, has acquired the Portuguese AI-based Language Operations (LangOps) platform Unbabel. The financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed.
The Portuguese technology firm announced that the deal “represents a significant milestone for Portuguese innovation, allowing Unbabel’s cutting-edge technology and research talent to scale on a global platform.”
Unbabel was founded in Lisbon in 2013, inspired by an original idea from a surfing trip.
The Portuguese tech company “has been pioneering AI-based translation, aiming to eliminate language barriers and assist global brands in gaining customer trust,” and became “the first Portuguese startup ever accepted by Y Combinator, marking a milestone that propelled its global ambitions.”
Unbabel “quickly grew to become an internationally recognized leader in AI, evolving from its first ‘human-in-the-loop’ translation platform to a world-renowned large language model (LLM).”
“By integrating Unbabel’s TowerLLM and COMET into its GlobalLink technology portfolio, TransPerfect reinforces its position as a leader in AI-based global content solutions,” states the communication announcing the acquisition.
“Unbabel is a pioneer in developing AI models for use in translation. We see the combination of the technology stacks as a great win for our joint clients — and we will continue to drive efficiency through innovation,” said TransPerfect President and Co-CEO Phil Shawe.
Unbabel’s co-founder and CEO, Vasco Pedro, will remain with the company “to oversee the integration,” it was stated.
“When we started Unbabel in Lisbon 12 years ago, our goal was simple: to eliminate language barriers with AI. From TowerLLM to COMET, our team set new standards for multilingual communication,” said Vasco Pedro.
“I am deeply grateful to all the Unbablers who made this journey possible; joining TransPerfect provides our technology and people with a global stage to create even greater impact,” he added.
“The complementary nature of Unbabel’s technology and team further enhances TransPerfect’s existing AI capabilities,” according to the company.
The integration of Unbabel’s resources “— from proprietary LLMs to world-class research talent — significantly expands the range of AI solutions available to clients,” and “as part of the acquisition, the Unbabel team will join TransPerfect’s operations in Lisbon, which will now become a key center for AI research and innovation in Europe,” the statement noted.
TransPerfect was advised in the operation by Baker Botts and DLA Piper ABBC Portugal, while Unbabel was represented by Orrick.
In June of last year, Unbabel was one of four recipients of 250,000 euros from the European Commission as part of the AI Grand Challenge.
Last February, Unbabel concluded a collective dismissal process in Portugal.
