Keysight buys Eggplant to extend software test reach

Eggplant is a software test automation platform provider that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and analytics to automate test creation and test execution.

Its Digital Automation Intelligence platform can test any technology on any device, operating system or browser at any layer, from the user interface (UI) to application programming interfaces (APIs) to the database.

Keysight says its combination with Eggplant forms an innovative force in the automated software test market across the physical and protocol layers and into the application layers, and enables bi-directional leverage of measurement technologies between both companies, resulting in increased solution differentiation in the expanded offering.

"As a recognised leader and trusted advisor in layer 1-7 design and test, Keysight is excited to add Eggplant's test capabilities for the software application layer, aligning with our strategy to grow our first-to-market software-centric solutions," said Ron Nersesian, Keysight chairman and CEO. "We're thrilled to welcome the Eggplant team to the Keysight family and look forward to working together in the fast-growing intelligent software test market with differentiated software-as-a-service technologies."

"Joining forces with Keysight gives Eggplant the ability to scale our intelligent automation platform and reach more organisations across the globe," said Dr. John Bates, CEO of Eggplant. "We share a vision to accelerate innovation and together we will be able to help customers on their digital transformation journey. We're proud of what we've accomplished through our employees and partners' contributions, and we're excited about this next chapter."

Digital services have seen software content and value grow exponentially. Smart and interconnected products are enabled by millions of lines of code.

Businesses must accelerate their digital transformation to remain competitive and relevant, while continuing to support legacy platforms. The ever-growing scale and breadth of testing required for digital products is increasing complexity and thus time-to-market.

By using artificial intelligence and analytics to automate testing, Eggplant enables improved software application development velocity and enhanced quality, driving competitive advantage and differentiation.

The company's customers span a wide range of sectors overlapping Keysight's existing customer base while expanding software test opportunities into new end-markets.

Eggplant had 2019 revenue of US $38 million and its CEO, John Bates, will join the Keysight leadership team reporting to Soon-Chai Gooi, president of Keysight's Electronic Industrial Solutions Group.