Synthetic data, intentionally created data that is not based on real events, plays a significant role in various applications, such as training machine learning models, validating mathematical models, and serving as a stand-in for test production or operational datasets. The advantages of synthetic data include its ability to overcome the restrictions on using private or controlled data, adjust data requirements to specific circumstances, and provide datasets for software testing and quality assurance. Although synthetic data can help duplicate the complexity of the original dataset, it cannot completely substitute accurate data.
The importance of synthetic data lies in its role in training neural networks. Developers need vast and well-annotated datasets to achieve accurate AI models. However, compiling and identifying such datasets can be challenging and costly. Synthetic data offers a cost-effective solution by generating diverse data that reflects the real world. It helps address privacy concerns, reduces bias, and includes critical corner cases that might not be present in real-world data.
Here are some synthetic data startups and companies that specialize in this field:
1. Datagen: This Israeli firm focuses on photorealistic visual simulations and recreations of the natural world. They use generative adversarial networks (GANs) to generate synthetic data. Datagen serves industries like retail, robotics, augmented reality, and self-driving cars.
2. Parallel Domain: This Silicon Valley startup specializes in simulating environments for self-driving vehicles. They have raised significant funding and collaborate with Toyota to train autonomous systems on challenging use cases using synthetic data.
3. Mindtech: This UK-based company offers a modular tool called Chameleon for creating infinite settings and scenarios using photorealistic 3D models. Mindtech focuses on developing AI systems that understand and predict human interactions.
4. Synthesis AI: This startup uses GANs and CGI technology to construct synthetic humans. They provide solutions for AI facial models, intelligent assistants, teleconferencing, driver monitoring, and smartphone facial verification.
5. OneView: This Israeli startup generates artificial data for AI algorithms that generate geographic intelligence from satellite and aerial photos. They incorporate real data from OpenStreetMap to create diverse scenarios and situations.
These are just a few examples of the companies working in the synthetic data space. They provide innovative solutions using AI to generate synthetic data that is more cost-effective, diverse, and valuable for training AI models.
Overall, synthetic data has become increasingly important in AI development, offering a way to overcome data limitations, reduce costs, and improve the accuracy and diversity of training datasets. It plays a vital role in various industries and applications, driving innovation and advancements in AI technology.