Deep Render

Deep Render is a London-based technology startup, founded in 2018 by Chri Besenbruch and Arsalan Zafar, developing artificial intelligence-based image and video compression technology. The company originated from Imperial College London, where the founders were studying computer science and machine learning. Besenbruch, the CEO, holds degrees in mathematics, economics, business innovation, and computer science, while Zafar, the CTO, has a background in spacecraft engineering and computer science.

The company's core product is an AI-Codec that utilizes neural networks to compress video and image files. This technology departs from traditional block-based compression methods, instead using a software-based approach that runs on neural processing units (NPUs) found in many modern devices. The AI learns to compress data by analyzing millions of video samples, aiming to reduce file sizes significantly while maintaining visual quality. Deep Render claims its codec can achieve up to five times smaller file sizes compared to current standards like HEVC, potentially offering a 15-20% improvement over VVC. This can lead to reduced content delivery costs for businesses and lower carbon emissions from video streaming.

Deep Render's business model involves selling its encoding and decoding software through annual enterprise licenses to major technology companies and content platforms that handle large volumes of video data, such as streaming services, social media, and cloud gaming platforms. The technology is designed for easy integration, supporting standard containers like MP4 for streaming protocols such as DASH.

Since its founding, Deep Render has raised a total of $15 million. Key funding includes a seed round in 2020 led by Pentech and Speedinvest, and a 2023 Series A round led by IP Group and Pentech. The company has also received grants from the European Innovation Council. These funds are being used to expand the team, accelerate commercial engagement, and support a United States expansion.

Keywords: video compression, AI codec, image compression, neural network, machine learning, deep learning, data compression, streaming technology, content delivery, bandwidth optimization, AI-based compression, media technology, enterprise software, deep tech, unsupervised learning, density estimation, video codec, AI hardware, neural processing units, computer vision