LiveKit, a developer of real-time AI voice and video infrastructure software, has secured $100 million in funding, establishing a $1 billion valuation. This financing round was led by Index Ventures, with contributions from existing investors such as Altimeter Capital Management, Hanabi Capital, and Redpoint Ventures, occurring 10 months after its previous fundraise.
The company provides the technology for OpenAI’s ChatGPT voice mode. Its client roster also includes xAI, Salesforce, and Tesla. Additionally, LiveKit’s services are utilized by 911 emergency service operators and mental health providers.
Founded in 2021 by Russ d’Sa and David Zhao, LiveKit originated as an open-source software project. Its initial purpose was to facilitate the development of applications capable of uninterrupted real-time audio and video transmission, particularly during the pandemic era when virtual meetings were prevalent.
While LiveKit began as a complimentary developer tool, its business expanded following the founders’ recognition of enterprise demand for a managed cloud version. The company subsequently started offering these services to businesses, responding to the growth in voice AI applications.
