Nuance Communications Inc. has acquired Saykara Inc., a startup focused on developing a mobile AI assistant to automate clinical documentation for physicians. The acquisition underscores Nuance’s focus on market and technical advancement in conversational artificial intelligence and ambient clinical intelligence solutions that attempt to reduce clinician burnout, enhance patient experiences, and improve overall health system financial integrity.

“The complementary technology built by the Saykara team aligns strongly with our technology portfolio and growth strategy as well as the needs of our clients,” said Joe Petro, Nuance executive vice president and chief technology officer. “With a shared vision, we will continue our aggressive focus on innovation, growth, and on delivering industry-leading AI-powered solutions that meaningfully address the compelling business problems that our healthcare clients and their clinicians face every day.”

“I welcome the opportunity to rejoin the market leader in conversational AI and ambient clinical intelligence, and the impressive Nuance research and development team – especially at this important juncture in the development and adoption of these AI-powered healthcare innovations,” said Saykara Founder and CEO Harjinder Sandhu.