Profile
Developed technology for automatic detection and analysis of TV commercials in real time.
Axwave, Inc. was a Palo Alto-based data company specializing in real-time TV spot detection and analytics, acquired by Samba TV in December 2018 for a multiple above its final valuation. Founded by Damian Ariel Scavo, Axwave developed patented technology for automatic detection and tagging of TV commercials, serving clients like the BBC, Comscore, Ipsos, and the NBA. Its acquisition by Samba TV in 2019, for undisclosed cash and stock terms, bolstered Samba's capabilities in real-time TV ad measurement, integrating Axwave's computer vision and workflow automation into Samba's AI-driven commercial break detection.
The deal was part of Samba's $30M Series B funding round led by Liberty Global, Disney, and Warner Media. Axwave's technology disrupted legacy manual TV spot tracking, offering advertisers global-scale insights into ad performance. Post-acquisition, Axwave's team, including VP of Engineering Maciej Donajski, integrated into Samba, enhancing its cross-platform measurement and causal TV attribution solutions. Samba TV, now the parent company, continues to leverage Axwave's IP for real-time TV analytics, though Axwave operates as a dissolved entity under Samba's umbrella.
Who buys this
- TV networks and broadcasters
- Advertising agencies
- Media measurement firms
- Sports leagues and entertainment companies
Publicly disclosed clients
- BBC
- Comscore
- Ipsos
- National Basketball Association (NBA)
Strengths and what to watch
Strengths
- Patented real-time TV spot detection technology
- Integration with Samba TV's global-scale analytics platform
- Blue-chip client base including major networks and leagues
Watch for
- Dissolved as an independent entity post-acquisition by Samba TV
- Dependence on Samba TV's continued investment in the technology
- Competition from newer AI-driven TV analytics startups
Key Information
- Founded
- 2008
- Headquarters
- Palo Alto, USA
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Axwave, Inc.?
Axwave, Inc. was a Palo Alto-based data company specializing in real-time TV spot detection and analytics. Founded by Damian Ariel Scavo, it developed patented technology for automatic detection and tagging of TV commercials, serving clients like the BBC, Comscore, Ipsos, and the NBA.
What technology did Axwave develop?
Axwave developed patented technology for automatic detection and analysis of TV commercials in real time. This innovation allowed for precise tagging and tracking of TV spots, providing valuable insights for advertisers and broadcasters.
Who acquired Axwave, Inc.?
Axwave, Inc. was acquired by Samba TV in December 2018. The acquisition, which included cash and stock terms, enhanced Samba TV's capabilities in real-time TV ad measurement by integrating Axwave's computer vision and workflow automation technologies.
What clients did Axwave serve?
Axwave served a prestigious client base, including major networks and organizations like the BBC, Comscore, Ipsos, and the National Basketball Association (NBA). These clients benefited from Axwave's real-time TV spot detection and analytics technology.
How did Axwave's acquisition impact Samba TV?
Axwave's acquisition bolstered Samba TV's capabilities in real-time TV ad measurement. By integrating Axwave's patented technology, Samba TV enhanced its cross-platform measurement and causal TV attribution solutions, strengthening its position in the TV analytics industry.
What happened to Axwave after its acquisition?
After its acquisition by Samba TV, Axwave was dissolved as an independent entity. Its team, including VP of Engineering Maciej Donajski, integrated into Samba TV, which continues to leverage Axwave's technology for real-time TV analytics.
Sources
- www.linkedin.com — Axwave was sold to Samba TV
- www.linkedin.com — Axwave's acquisition details and valuation
- www.samba.tv — Acquisition announcement and technology integration
- www.sec.gov — Samba TV's financial and corporate details post-acquisition