Google vet raises $8M for Continua to bring AI agents to group chats

David Petrou, a former Google executive, has raised $8 million in funding for his startup, Continua. The company aims to bring AI agents to group chats, enhancing the overall communication experience. Petrou, who was a founding member of Google Goggles and Google Glass, believes that group chats often lack the nuance and context that are present in face-to-face interactions. Continua's AI agents are designed to provide useful information, suggest relevant actions, and facilitate more productive discussions within group settings. The funding round was led by Accel, with participation from other investors, including Gradient Ventures (Google's AI-focused venture fund) and Unusual Ventures. Continua plans to use the funds to expand its engineering team and further develop its AI-powered group chat technology. The startup's goal is to create a more engaging and collaborative environment for remote and hybrid work teams, as well as other group communication scenarios. By leveraging AI, Continua aims to make group chats more efficient and effective, ultimately improving the way people interact and work together.