Chris Barton

Chris Barton is a visionary entrepreneur, AI innovator, and keynote speaker, best known for founding Shazam, the revolutionary music recognition app that pioneered consumer-facing artificial intelligence. From early on, Chris embraced disruptive thinking, transforming what seemed impossible into a globally recognised innovation. His expertise in AI-driven solutions, strategic partnerships, and groundbreaking technology development has made him one of the most sought-after voices in the artificial intelligence and innovation space.

Chris co-founded Shazam in 2000, introducing one of the first-ever AI-powered applications that allowed users to identify songs simply by recording a short audio clip. At the time, mobile technology lacked the computational power to process such requests, but Chris and his team overcame these barriers with a unique AI algorithm capable of recognising music in noisy environments. Shazam went on to be acquired by Apple in 2018 for a reported $400 million and has since amassed over 2 billion downloads worldwide. Beyond Shazam, Chris played a key role in shaping Google’s mobile strategy as a founding member of the Android Partnerships team, where he built the Android mobile operator partnership framework. He later contributed to Dropbox’s global expansion as Head of Mobile Operators Business Development.

Continuing his passion for AI-driven innovation, Chris founded Guard Inc. in 2020, a company that employs artificial intelligence to detect drowning risks in swimming pools. This venture reflects his commitment to using AI for social good, proving that technology can be leveraged for life-saving applications. Over the years, Chris has been granted 12 patents, with inventions spanning Shazam, Google Search, and Dropbox, further cementing his influence in the tech industry. His expertise in creating, scaling, and monetising AI-powered businesses has made him a respected figure in the artificial intelligence landscape.

Now a highly sought-after AI keynote speaker, Chris shares his experiences in pioneering artificial intelligence and turning impossible ideas into reality. He has spoken for American Express, Coca-Cola, Accenture, Verizon, and SAP, offering insights into AI-driven transformation, disruptive thinking, and strategic innovation. His talks inspire audiences to push the boundaries of technology and embrace AI as a tool for solving complex global challenges. Through his keynotes, Chris empowers businesses and individuals to think differently, innovate boldly, and create meaningful impact with AI.