In the US, 3D game tech specialist Unity Technologies has appointed former Uber exec Danny Lange, as Vice President of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning.

San Francisco-based Unity has developed a graphics engine through which users can develop games or apps for multiple platforms including mobile devices, home entertainment systems, PCs, and embedded systems. The firm also offers solutions and services for creating games and connecting with audiences.

Lange (pictured) joins as his former employer Uber acquires NYC research start-up Geometric Intelligence, and sets up a division focused on research into artificial intelligence and machine learning. He was previously Uber's Head of Machine Learning, after a spell as General Manager, Machine Learning at Amazon; and before this he spent five years at Microsoft, latterly as Principal Development Manager, Big Data Analytics with Hadoop. Earlier in his career, Lange spent eight years on speech recognition systems; first as CTO of General Magic Inc., then through his work on General Motor’s OnStar Virtual Advisor, having begun his career as a Computer Scientist at IBM Research.

In his new role, Lange will lead Unity's efforts around AI and machine learning. CEO John Riccitiello comments: 'Danny's deep, technical background and expertise in machine learning align perfectly with the needs of our developers in the rapidly changing world of games and AR / VR. We look forward to Danny creating innovative technologies our developers can use to help them optimise engagement and revenue for their products'.

Web site: www.unity3d.com .

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