Kaltura, the New York-based AI video platform, has announced its acquisition of eSelf.ai, an Israeli startup specializing in conversational avatars, for approximately $27 million. This strategic move, revealed today, underscores Kaltura’s commitment to enhancing its offerings by integrating eSelf’s advanced technology, which supports seamless interaction through AI-generated digital humans capable of conversing with users in over 30 languages.
Founded in 2023 by CEO Alan Bekker, who previously sold his company Voca to Snap in 2020, and CTO Eylon Shoshan, eSelf is recognized for its cutting-edge developments in speech-to-video generation and real-time screen comprehension. Following the acquisition, Bekker and Shoshan will lead the integration of eSelf’s capabilities at Kaltura, bringing all current eSelf personnel on board as part of the transition.
Kaltura is known for its extensive suite of cloud-based solutions designed for complex video applications, which include a corporate video portal resembling a private YouTube, webinar tools, and platform integrations for enhanced video learning experiences in educational institutions. Serving over 800 enterprise clients, Kaltura’s innovative video solutions are utilized by prominent companies such as Amazon, Oracle, Adobe, and IBM, alongside leading financial and educational institutions across the United States.
The integration of eSelf.ai’s technology aims to create virtual agents within Kaltura’s video platform that can listen, respond, and interact in real-time, transforming user engagement in sectors like sales, marketing, and customer support.
As AI continues to revolutionize video content creation, Kaltura is positioning itself as a leader in the industry, moving beyond traditional video management to a more interactive and personalized viewer experience. “With eSelf’s technology, we’re adding human-like elements to our AI agents, making them not just conversational but also expressive,” stated Kaltura’s CEO, Yekutiel.
The company is also planning to develop standalone avatar agents that can be embedded across various applications, targeting industries such as healthcare, telecommunications, e-commerce, and finance. This acquisition marks Kaltura’s fourth since becoming a public entity in 2021, following notable purchases including Tvinci, Rapt Media, and Newrow, and contributing to its anticipated growth trajectory with revenues nearing $180 million.
