The Motley Fool·2026-01-27 06:00Core Insights - The booming AI sector presents investment opportunities, particularly in companies like SoundHound AI and Navitas Semiconductor, each representing different segments of the AI industry [1][2] SoundHound AI - SoundHound specializes in consumer-facing, voice-activated AI technology, allowing users to perform tasks through voice commands [2][3] - The company launched its Vision AI product in January, which enhances vehicle capabilities by integrating with cameras to interpret surroundings [4] - A partnership with Bridgepointe Technologies aims to expand SoundHound's market reach, with clients including Marriott and Toyota, potentially boosting sales [5] - Revenue for Q3 2025 reached a record $42 million, marking a 68% year-over-year increase, driven by expanding platform capabilities and acquisitions [6] - Despite revenue growth, operating costs surged by 243% year-over-year to $115.9 million, raising concerns about sustainability [6] - SoundHound forecasts full-year sales for 2025 between $165 million and $180 million, nearly doubling from $84.7 million in 2024 [7] Navitas Semiconductor - Navitas develops gallium nitride integrated circuits for power conversion, which are advantageous for AI data centers due to their energy efficiency [9][10] - The company shifted focus from consumer-related components, which previously accounted for 60% of revenue, to AI, resulting in a significant revenue decline [11] - In Q3 2025, Navitas reported revenue of $10.1 million, down from $21.7 million in 2024, and a net loss of $19.2 million [11][12] - Operating expenses were reduced to $23.2 million in Q3 from $37.6 million the previous year, but sales are expected to continue declining in Q4 2025 [12] - Navitas anticipates gradual revenue growth in 2026 as it focuses on AI, despite current challenges [12] Investment Considerations - Investing in SoundHound requires confidence in its ability to maintain sales growth while managing costs, whereas Navitas investors must believe in the success of its AI pivot [14] - Both companies are currently unprofitable, making valuation assessments based on forward price-to-sales (P/S) ratios relevant [15] - SoundHound's forward sales multiple is at a low point, while Navitas' is significantly higher, suggesting that SoundHound may be the more attractive investment at this time [17][18]