European AI Startup Launches Ultra-Compact Fly Brain Model
European AI Startup Launches Ultra-Compact Fly Brain Model
San Sebastián-based Multiverse Computing has introduced two groundbreaking ultra-small AI models named after animal brain sizes: "SuperFly" (94M parameters) and "ChickBrain" (3.2B parameters). The company, specializing in quantum physics-inspired model compression, aims to bring advanced AI capabilities to everyday IoT devices.
Quantum-Inspired Compression Technology
The startup's proprietary CompactifAI technology uses quantum physics principles to dramatically reduce model sizes without sacrificing performance. Founder Román Orús explains: "Our compression differs fundamentally from traditional methods - it's a more refined algorithm rooted in quantum physics."
Model Specifications and Capabilities
- SuperFly: Compressed from Hugging Face's 135M-parameter SmolLM2-135 model to just 94M parameters (comparable to a fly's brain). Designed for resource-constrained devices, it enables voice-controlled appliances with minimal processing power.
- ChickBrain: Derived from Meta's Llama3.18B model, this 3.2B-parameter model maintains reasoning capabilities while being small enough to run offline on a MacBook.
Surprisingly, ChickBrain outperforms its source model in multiple benchmarks including MMLU-Pro (language), Math500/GSM8K (math), and GPQA Diamond (general knowledge).
Commercial Applications and Partnerships
The company is currently negotiating with major manufacturers including Apple, Samsung, Sony, and HP (an existing investor). Multiverse offers:
- Direct model sales to device makers
- API-based compression services via AWS at competitive rates
Existing clients include BASF, Ally Financial, Moody's, and Bosch, primarily for image recognition applications.
Industry Implications
This development signals a significant shift from cloud-based AI to edge computing solutions, offering:
- Faster response times
- Enhanced privacy protections
- Reliable offline functionality
The company recently secured €189 million ($215M) in funding led by Bullhound Capital, bringing total investments to $250M since its 2019 founding.
Key Points:
- Quantum compression enables smaller AI models without performance loss
- 94M-parameter SuperFly brings AI to simple IoT devices like appliances
- 3.2B-parameter ChickBrain outperforms larger models in benchmarks
- Active partnerships with major tech companies underway
- Represents broader industry move toward edge computing solutions