SpeakSet

SpeakSet developed a video-calling technology aimed at mitigating loneliness among the elderly by transforming their television into a video communication device. The company was founded by Ewan Marshall, Adi Kasliwal, and Matthew Simmonds. Marshall, having recently graduated from university, was living with his grandparents when he and his co-founders enrolled in the Entrepreneur First accelerator program, which provided initial funding for the venture.

The core of SpeakSet's service was to provide a video connection between health professionals and their patients directly through the patient's television, a familiar technology for older individuals. This was achieved via a user interface controlled by a simple remote. The business model targeted the healthcare sector, enabling professionals to conduct remote care sessions, thereby reducing travel time and allowing them to focus on patient care. For patients, the service was designed to empower them to live more independently while staying connected. The system facilitated face-to-face conversations with not only healthcare providers but also with friends and family.

The company's journey included participation in accelerator and incubator programs in 2013 and 2014, securing grants along the way. SpeakSet was ultimately acquired in a merger/acquisition deal on January 1, 2017.

Keywords: remote care, telehealth, video calling for seniors, elderly care technology, patient monitoring, independent living technology, healthcare communication, video conferencing on TV, gerontechnology, social isolation solution, aging in place, health tech, assistive technology, digital health, Ewan Marshall, Adi Kasliwal, Matthew Simmonds, Entrepreneur First, remote patient care, virtual consultations