Algerian-born entrepreneur aims to replace keyboard with AI
Neil Zeghidour, backed by Nvidia, is developing voice AI to make human-machine interactions more natural.
Algerian-born entrepreneur Neil Zeghidour wants to replace the keyboard with voice-activated artificial intelligence. Zeghidour, featured in L’Obs' "50 who will shape tomorrow" list, discussed his ambition on a YouTube podcast on October 25. His company, Gradium, aims to allow users to interact with machines simply by speaking.
Gradium's goal is to reduce reliance on keyboards by enabling natural voice commands for tasks like organizing travel or preparing documents. Developers can already use natural language to instruct AI agents for programming tasks. Zeghidour believes future portable devices like earbuds could become primary access points for these AI services, potentially reducing screen time.
Before Gradium, Zeghidour co-founded Kyutai, a non-profit AI research lab funded with 300 million euros, which developed the voice AI model Moshi. Commercial interest from companies in the gaming and smartphone sectors led to Gradium's creation to meet this demand. Gradium aims for more responsive and customizable voice AI than existing options like ChatGPT.
Why it mattersAlgerian-born entrepreneur Neil Zeghidour is developing voice AI technology to change how people interact with computers and devices.