Montreal-based Algolux, a provider of machine learning optimization platforms for autonomous vision, has announced a research partnership with the Montreal Institute for Learning Algorithms (Mila).

“We look forward to … [developing] new deep learning methods that push today’s computer vision capabilities to the next level.”

Algolux and Mila will work on several research and talent development initiatives, exploring deep learning techniques to advance computer vision accuracy and robustness, sensor fusion, and computational imaging. This collaboration will concentrate on enhancing the safety of autonomous vehicles and robots, the accuracy of video surveillance, and user experience with consumer computer vision applications.

  “Breakthroughs in AI and computer vision are fundamental to improving the accuracy and safety of the cars we drive, enabling autonomous vehicles and robots, and increasing security,” said Yoshua Bengio, scientific director of Mila. “Algolux has been pushing the state-of-the-art in machine learning for computer vision as an exciting startup within the Montreal technology ecosystem and we’re excited by the innovation that will result from this partnership.”

Algolux uses machine learning to develop deep perception technology that enables autonomous vision, allowing vehicles and devices to see more clearly. The company was founded in 2013, and raised a $12.84 million CAD Series A in May 2018, as well as a $2.6 million seed round from Real Ventures in August 2014.

“Artificial intelligence has dramatically improved the ability for machines to see and is a fundamental technology for realizing safer cars and autonomous vehicles, more perceptive and responsible surveillance systems, and improving the user experience for smartphones and AR/VR devices,” said Felix Heide, CTO and co-founder, Algolux. “This enables a massive opportunity and requires the technology and research talent that the Algolux partnership with Mila will help foster.”

Founded in 1993 by Bengio, Mila is the result of a partnership between the University of Montreal, McGill University, Polytechnique Montréal, and HEC Montréal. Mila has fostered a number of new industry partnerships in recent months. In June, Samsung opened a 2,000-square-foot AI lab in Mila, In March, Mila teamed up with Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec to create a $250 million fund for Québec businesses.

“We look forward to working with Professor Bengio and the broader Mila research community to develop new deep learning methods that push today’s computer vision capabilities to the next level of performance and application,” Heide said.