tech
January 28, 2026
AI data labeler Handshake buys Cleanlab, an acquisition target of multiple others
The deal is structured as an acquihire of nine key Cleanlab's researchers.
TL;DR
- Handshake acquired Cleanlab, a startup focused on auditing data labels.
- The acquisition is described as an "acqui-hire," bringing nine Cleanlab employees, including its co-founders, to Handshake's research team.
- Cleanlab's software aims to improve data quality by identifying incorrect labels.
- The goal is to enhance the data quality Handshake provides to AI labs.
- Cleanlab received other acquisition interest but chose Handshake because competitors use Handshake's platform.
- Handshake has previously provided data for major AI labs, including OpenAI.