Core Insights - Agora, Inc. is expanding into AI-powered robotics and interactive toys with the launch of its ConvoAI Device Kit, developed in partnership with Beken, aimed at creating intelligent, voice-driven interactions for smart devices [1][2] - The ConvoAI Device Kit integrates Beken's AI chip modules with Agora's technology, enabling ultra-low latency voice interactions and intelligent dialogue processing, enhancing the interactivity of AI-driven devices [2][4] - Agora's technology is being utilized in Robopoet's AI companion robot, Fuzzoo, which focuses on emotional wellness and personalized interactions, showcasing the potential of conversational AI in emotional support [3][4] Company and Industry Developments - Agora's ConvoAI Device Kit is designed to overcome challenges in on-device conversational AI, such as background noise and latency, through advanced voice activity detection and real-time speech synthesis [4] - The partnership with Beken allows device makers to integrate AI seamlessly into their products, paving the way for the next generation of responsive and interactive devices [4][5] - Agora's vision includes creating intelligent devices capable of real-time, human-like interactions, with applications ranging from educational AI toys to smart home devices [5]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the launch of Agora's conversational AI engine, which enables any text-based large model to be upgraded into a conversational multimodal model, emphasizing affordability and efficiency in AI voice interaction [2][4]. Group 1: Product Features - The conversational AI engine supports a wide range of large model providers, including DeepSeek and ChatGPT, allowing developers to choose freely [4]. - It features low latency with a median voice conversation delay of 650ms and an intelligent interruption technology that allows for responses as low as 340ms [5]. - The engine can filter out 95% of environmental noise, ensuring accurate voice recognition, and maintains stable conversations even under poor network conditions [5]. Group 2: Development and Cost Efficiency - Developers can deploy the AI engine with just two lines of code in about 15 minutes, significantly lowering the development barrier [6]. - The cost for AI voice interaction is set at 0.098 yuan per minute, with an initial bonus of 1000 minutes for new users [7]. - Average conversation costs are calculated to be around 0.03 yuan per interaction, making it highly economical for frequent use [8]. Group 3: Application Scenarios - The conversational AI engine can be utilized in various applications such as smart assistants, virtual companionship, language practice, customer service, and smart hardware [10]. - It enhances the functionality of smart devices by enabling voice control and personalized services, applicable in AI toys, educational hardware, and home assistants [10].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the launch of Agora's conversational AI engine, DeepSeek, which offers low-latency, real-time voice interaction capabilities at an extremely low cost, making it accessible for developers to integrate AI into applications [1][4][17]. Pricing and Cost Efficiency - The cost of using the AI engine is remarkably low at 0.098 yuan per minute, with an initial offer of 1000 free minutes for new users [3][5]. - Average conversation length is approximately 21.1 seconds, resulting in a cost of only 0.03 yuan per interaction, leading to a monthly cost of less than 0.5 yuan for 15 interactions [5]. Technical Performance - The engine achieves a median response latency of 650 milliseconds, significantly below the 1.7 seconds threshold for natural conversation [7][8]. - It supports interruption of responses with a low latency of 340 milliseconds, mimicking human conversation dynamics [9]. - The engine can filter out 95% of background noise, ensuring high-quality voice recognition even in noisy environments [9]. Network and Compatibility - Agora has established over 200 data centers globally, allowing for stable connections even in poor network conditions, with the ability to maintain communication despite 80% packet loss [10]. - The engine is compatible with various large models, including DeepSeek and ChatGPT, and supports over 30,000 device types, ensuring broad accessibility [10][16]. Developer Accessibility - The integration process for developers is simplified to just two lines of code, allowing for deployment of a conversational AI agent within 15 minutes [11][12]. - Developers can easily switch between different underlying models and voice synthesis providers without altering the front-end logic [13][14]. New Service Model - The launch of the conversational AI engine signifies the emergence of a "voice interaction as a service" model, decoupling RTC technology from large model development [17][18]. - Agora positions itself as a middleware provider in the AI voice interaction ecosystem, facilitating the integration of RTC technology into various AI applications [19][21].

Core Insights - Agora, Inc. has launched its Conversational AI Engine, enabling developers to create interactive voice experiences with any AI model, optimized for ultra-low latency and natural conversation flow [1][2][3] Product Features - The Conversational AI Engine allows the use of any AI model and text-to-speech voice solution, designed to optimize real-time conversation flow with low-latency responses and intelligent pauses for interruptions [2][3] - Built-in features include background noise suppression, AI-driven acoustic algorithms, and real-time speech-to-text capabilities, ensuring clear voice interactions in various environments [3] - The Engine is powered by Agora's global Software-Defined Real-Time Network™, which minimizes latency and handles packet loss effectively [3] Integration and Accessibility - Agora plans to extend the Conversational AI Engine's capabilities to its App Builder product, enabling a no-code approach for creating conversational AI experiences [4] - The public beta of the Conversational AI Engine is now available, allowing businesses and developers to start building advanced voice AI applications [7] Strategic Partnerships - Agora is partnering with Oracle to leverage Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) for optimizing performance, security, and efficiency of the Conversational AI Engine [5][6] Application Areas - The Conversational AI Engine is designed for various applications, including 24/7 customer support, IoT integration, virtual shopping assistants, live AI hosts, mental health support, live tutoring, AI-powered NPCs in gaming, and employee onboarding [6][9]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved GAAP profitability for the first time in several years, marking a significant milestone [6][27] - Total revenue for Q4 2024 was $34.5 million, up 4% year over year, excluding revenues from certain low-margin products [7][20] - Core revenues were $17.4 million in Q4, reflecting a 10.8% quarter-over-quarter increase and a 13.7% year-over-year increase [20] - Gross margin for Q4 was 66.6%, with a slight decrease of 0.1% quarter over quarter and 0.8% year over year when excluding certain products [23] - Net income was $0.2 million in Q4, translating to a 0.5% net income margin, compared to a net loss margin of 7.2% in Q4 last year [26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Xiong Wang revenues were RMB 122.2 million in Q4, increasing 8.2% quarter over quarter but decreasing 5.4% year over year [21] - The increase in Xiong Wang revenues was primarily due to digital transformation customers, while the year-over-year decrease was attributed to slowing demand in social and entertainment sectors [21][22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported over 1,700 active customers for Agora and close to 2,000 for Xiong Wang, representing increases of 2% and 8% respectively compared to the previous year [7] - The demand in the China market is primarily driven by IoT and digital transformation, while the global market sees growth from live commerce and retail [36] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on driving operational efficiency and sustainable profitable growth, with a commitment to innovation and financial discipline [27][31] - The launch of the conversational AI engine is expected to accelerate the adoption of conversational AI across various industries, becoming a key driver of future growth [17][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the generative AI revolution presents extraordinary opportunities for the company, particularly in enabling seamless voice-based interactions [9][10] - The company expects to maintain sustained profitability throughout 2025, driven by strategic initiatives and emerging market opportunities in generative AI [30][31] Other Important Information - Operating cash flow was $4.5 million in Q4, compared to $3.7 million last year, and free cash flow was $4.3 million compared to $3.4 million last year [28] - The company ended Q4 with $363.8 million in cash and equivalents, with a share repurchase program extended through February 2026 [29] Q&A Session Summary Question: Trends in overseas and China markets and key sectors driving growth in 2025 - Management noted demand in China is primarily on IoT and digital transformation, while globally, live commerce and retail are driving growth [36] Question: Increase in AI-related demand and application scenarios - There is growing interest in AI-related technologies, particularly in voice AI applications for companionship and education [38][39] Question: Gross profit margin and GAAP profit targets for 2025 - The company expects gross margin to maintain around 67% and aims for stronger growth on the bottom line compared to the top line [42][44] Question: Strong recovery of Agora's growth rate in Q4 and future momentum - The growth rate was driven by new usage in live commerce and other novel use cases, with optimism for continued growth in 2025 [49][51] Question: Demand for voice and multimodal interaction in the next two years - Management sees significant potential in voice AI applications, particularly in customer service and IoT devices, with expectations for growth in these areas [53][59]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue in Q4 2024 was $34.5 million, up 4% year over year, excluding revenues from certain end-of-sale low-margin products [7][20] - Core revenues were $17.4 million in Q4, an increase of 10.8% quarter over quarter and 13.7% year over year [20] - Gross margin for Q4 was 66.6%, slightly decreased by 0.1% quarter over quarter and 0.8% year over year [23] - Net income was $0.2 million in Q4, translating to a 0.5% net income margin, compared to a net loss margin of 7.2% in Q4 last year [26][27] - Operating cash flow was $4.5 million in Q4, compared to $3.7 million last year [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Xiong Wang revenues were RMB 122.2 million in Q4, increasing 8.2% quarter over quarter but decreasing 5.4% year over year [21] - The base net retention rate was 95% for Agora and 79% for Xiong Wang, excluding revenues from certain end-of-sale products [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Demand in the China market is primarily driven by IoT and digital transformation, while the global market sees growth from live commerce and retail economy [36] - The company noted significant interest in AI-related technologies, particularly in applications for companionship and education [38][54] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to maintain operational efficiency and deliver sustainable profitable growth, with a focus on emerging market opportunities in generative AI [6][30] - The launch of the conversational AI engine is expected to drive growth by enabling developers to create interactive voice experiences [13][17] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted the challenges faced over the past few years, including the pandemic and regulatory changes, but emphasized a return to profitability [6][27] - The company expects total revenues for Q1 2025 to be between $31 million and $33 million, reflecting a year-on-year growth rate of 7.7% [30] Other Important Information - The board has authorized a 12-month extension of the share repurchase program through February 28, 2026, reflecting confidence in the company's long-term growth potential [29] Q&A Session Summary Question: Trends in overseas and China markets and key sectors driving growth in 2025 - Management noted demand in China is focused on IoT and digital transformation, while globally, live commerce and retail economy are key growth drivers [36] Question: Increase in AI-related demand and application scenarios - There is growing interest in AI technologies, particularly for voice AI applications in companionship and education [38][54] Question: Gross profit margin and GAAP profit targets for 2025 - The company expects gross margin to maintain around 67% and aims for stronger growth on the bottom line compared to the top line [42][44] Question: Strong recovery of Agora's growth rate in Q4 and future momentum - The growth rate was driven by new usage in live commerce and the creator economy, with optimism for continued growth in 2025 [49][51] Question: Impact of DeepSeq on demand for voice and multimodal interaction - Management sees significant potential in voice AI applications and plans to focus on practical use cases in the next two years [56][59]

• Agora: 1,723 as of December 31, 2024, an increase of 2.4% from 1,683 as of December 31, 2023. • Shengwang: 1,979 as of December 31, 2024, excluding those for Easemob, an increase of 7.8% from 1,835 as of December 31, 2023. • Dollar-Based Net Retention Rate • Agora: 95% for the trailing 12-month period ended December 31, 2024. • Shengwang: 79% for the trailing 12-month period ended December 31, 2024. Fiscal Year 2024 Highlights Fourth Quarter 2024 Financial Results Agora, Inc. Reports Fourth Quarter and Fi ...

实现GAAP口径盈利的难度相较Non-GAAP口径更高。 本文为IPO早知道原创 作者｜Stone Jin 微信公众号｜ipozaozhidao 据IPO早知道消息，声网母公司Agora, Inc. (NASDAQ: API) 于北京时间2月25日公布了2024年Q4 及全年财报。 财报显示，第四季度 Agora, Inc. 实现总营收3445万美元，同比增长（不含已终止的低毛利业务） 3.6%。 2025年Q1收入指引同比增速 （ 不含已终止的低毛利业务] ） 4.4-11.1%，较2024年Q4 收入增速加快 。 在美国通用会计准则（GAAP）下， Agora, Inc. 第四季度净利润为16万美元，同比扭亏为盈。对 此，Agora, Inc. 创始人兼CEO赵斌表示，"我们很高兴地宣布，得益于新应用场景带来的收入增长 以及有效的成本管控，2024年第四季度公司在美国通用会计准则（GAAP）口径下实现盈利。展望 2025年，我们将继续聚焦于提升运营效率，推动可持续且盈利的业务增长。" 生成式人工智能正在带来变革性机遇，尤其是在人类与 AI 模型实时语音交互领域。本季度，声网发 布对话式 AI 引擎 Bet ...

Core Insights - Agora, Inc. achieved GAAP profitability in Q4 2024, driven by revenue growth and disciplined cost management, with a focus on enhancing operational efficiency for sustainable growth [2][5][12] - The company launched a Conversational AI Engine aimed at improving real-time voice interactions, which is expected to accelerate the adoption of conversational AI across various industries [2] Fourth Quarter 2024 Highlights - Total revenues for Q4 2024 were $34.5 million, a decrease of 4.4% from $36.0 million in Q4 2023 [5][6] - Agora's revenue was $17.4 million, an increase of 13.7% from $15.3 million in Q4 2023, attributed to business expansion in sectors like live shopping [5][6] - Shengwang's revenue was RMB122.2 million ($17.1 million), a decrease of 17.6% from RMB148.3 million ($20.7 million) in Q4 2023 [5][6] - Active customers for Agora increased by 2.4% to 1,723 as of December 31, 2024 [5] - Dollar-Based Net Retention Rate for Agora was 95% for the trailing 12-month period [5] Fiscal Year 2024 Highlights - Total revenues for 2024 were $133.3 million, a decrease of 5.9% from $141.5 million in 2023 [5][14] - Agora's revenue increased by 5.7% to $64.5 million in 2024, while Shengwang's revenue decreased by 13.7% to RMB489.6 million ($68.8 million) [5][14] - Net loss for 2024 was $42.7 million, significantly improved from a loss of $87.2 million in 2023 [5][24] - Free cash flow for 2024 was negative $16.7 million, compared to negative $14.5 million in 2023 [5] Financial Metrics - Gross profit for Q4 2024 was $22.9 million, an increase of 1.2% from $22.7 million in Q4 2023, with a gross margin of 66.6% [8][12] - Operating expenses in Q4 2024 were $28.5 million, a decrease of 8.8% from $31.2 million in Q4 2023 [9][12] - Net cash provided by operating activities for Q4 2024 was $4.5 million, compared to $3.7 million in Q4 2023 [5][12] Share Repurchase Program - The company repurchased approximately 1.3 million Class A ordinary shares for about $1.4 million in Q4 2024, representing 0.7% of its $200 million share repurchase program [27][28] - As of December 31, 2024, the company had repurchased approximately 130.6 million Class A ordinary shares for about $115.2 million, representing 57.6% of its share repurchase program [28][29] Financial Outlook - The company expects total revenues for Q1 2025 to be between $31 million and $33 million, compared to $29.7 million in Q1 2024, excluding revenues from certain end-of-sale low-margin products [30]

Core Viewpoint - Agora, Inc. is set to release its financial results for Q4 and the fiscal year 2024 on February 24, 2025, after U.S. market close, followed by a conference call to discuss the results [1][2]. Company Overview - Agora, Inc. is a pioneer and leader in Real-Time Engagement Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), providing developers with APIs for real-time voice, video, interactive live-streaming, chat, whiteboard, and AI capabilities [3]. - The company operates two independent businesses: Agora and Shengwang, with Agora headquartered in Santa Clara, California, and Shengwang based in Shanghai, China [3][4].