The Danish company Milestone Systems is acquiring the Berlin-based technology provider Brighter AI. With this acquisition, Milestone is expanding its portfolio to include a leading AI-based anonymization technology – a strategic step in the face of increasing global demands for data protection and ethically responsible AI development.
Brighter AI is considered a pioneer in the field of privacy-compliant video analytics. The company’s proprietary “Deep Natural Anonymization” solution automatically detects personal features such as faces and replaces them with synthetic data. The goal: to make visual data usable without violating the privacy of the individuals concerned – for example, for developing AI models.
Thomas Jensen, CEO of Milestone Systems, emphasizes:
“Brighter AI is a perfect match for Milestone. Their technology is top-notch and will significantly expand our offering for partners and customers. Together, we are sending a clear signal for responsible technology – made in Europe.”
The acquisition strengthens Milestone’s position in video management software (VMS), video analytics and video surveillance-as-a-service and fits into the company’s growth strategy. In addition, Brighter AI’s technology will be a key pillar of the recently introduced “Project Hafnia” – a tool for creating privacy-compliant AI training data libraries.
Strengthening European innovation
The acquisition brings together two European technology drivers committed to the “privacy-by-design” philosophy. The alliance is seen as a signal to the global market that Europe is ready to take a leading role in developing and regulating responsible AI technologies.
Marian Gläser, CEO and co-founder of Brighter AI, sees great potential:
“Our merger with Milestone enables us to scale our mission – to make visual data usable in a privacy-compliant way – on a global level. Together, we can make the future of visual AI safe, ethical and transformative.”
Background: Brighter AI was founded in 2017 by Marian and Patrick Kern and currently employs 24 people, who will continue to work in a separate business unit within Milestone. The company has been recognized by NVIDIA, among others, as “Europe’s Hottest AI Startup”.
With this step, Milestone Systems is underlining its commitment to setting standards for globally responsible technology – with innovative strength from Europe and a clear commitment to data protection, security and scalability.
