As part of our quick founder questions series – or QFQs – we spoke to Sohaib Ahmad, co-founder and CEO of Neuphonic about real-time voice solutions, seamless AI-driven experiences and going multilingual.
Neuphonic offers the world’s fastest, ultra-low latency text-to-speech technology, delivering voice synthesis in under 25ms. Our API empowers developers to integrate lifelike speech in real time, transforming voice interactions for apps, services, and AI-driven products.
What was the catalyst for launching the product?
We recognised the growing need for real-time voice solutions as digital interaction becomes more voice-centric. Existing TTS systems had high latency, so we aimed to solve this, creating a faster, seamless AI-driven experience that developers could integrate effortlessly.
Tell me about the product - what it is, what it aims to achieve, who you work with, how you reach customers, USP and so on?
Neuphonic is an API-based text-to-speech platform with the industry’s fastest latency. We work with developers building voice-driven applications, particularly in AI and automation. We reach customers via developer communities, targeted marketing, and partnerships with AI-driven startups and enterprises.
How has the business evolved since its launch?
Earlier this year, we secured funding that enabled us to bring in top talent with deep expertise in Voice AI. Their research led to key breakthroughs, allowing us to launch our closed beta in late September 2024. Since then, we’ve onboarded hundreds of users with a streamlined offering and ramped up our marketing and sales efforts. We’re also seeing strong interest from companies eager to integrate our technology for global applications.
What is your favourite thing about being a founder?
My favourite part is the creative freedom to build something truly groundbreaking. I enjoy strategising with my team, solving complex problems, and watching ideas evolve into tangible results that impact our users directly.
Which founders or businesses do you see as being the most inspirational?
I’m most inspired by companies that create a positive societal impact. That’s why I enjoy working with ed-tech and health-tech companies, especially those developing assistive technologies. It’s rewarding to see how technical innovation can empower underserved communities and drive meaningful change.
What has been your biggest business fail?
As a founder, you’re bound to make mistakes almost every day! One that sticks out is when we tried to open a bank account—it was a total nightmare. The process with a high street bank took forever because of their slow admin, so we went with a challenger bank in the meantime. But then they had limitations on their services, which made the whole thing pretty frustrating!
What are the things you’re really good at as a leader?
I excel at vision setting, strategic decision-making, and creating a focused team environment. I’m also quick to adapt to challenges and opportunities, which has helped the business grow in unpredictable ways.
Which areas do you need to improve on?
I’m working on delegating more effectively and stepping back from the hands-on technical details to focus more on business strategy and scaling. I’m also learning to better balance the need for speed with longer-term planning
What’s in store for the future of the business?
We plan to expand our voice model offerings by going multilingual, and multi-speaker sooner than later. This will allow us to target a global audience, allowing us to remain competitive with leading providers.
What advice would you give to other founders or future founders?
Focus on solving a specific problem and build relentlessly. Test your product early, listen to user feedback, and stay nimble. Also, don’t be afraid to reach out for help from mentors and other founders—collaboration can accelerate your growth.
And finally, a more personal question! We like to ask everyone we interview about their daily routine and the rules they live by. Is it up at 4am for yoga, or something a little more traditional?
My routine is pretty straightforward: I like to start the day with an hour or two of work before heading into the office. My day is a mix of marketing, product development, investor calls, and sales meetings. I try to wrap things up before 7pm, then grab some food, hit the gym, and call it a night!
Sohaib Ahmad is the co-founder and CEO of Neuphonic.
Article courtesy of our content partner Maddyness UK
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