Accenture has agreed to acquire Ookla, the company behind Speedtest and Downdetector, in a $1.2 billion deal aimed at expanding its artificial intelligence and connectivity services. Ookla's platforms help millions of users test internet speeds and monitor service outages, while also providing enterprise data analytics for telecom operators and businesses. The acquisition will allow Accenture to integrate Ookla's real-time network performance data into its client offerings.

Ookla's Speedtest platform collects billions of mobile network samples daily, measuring signal levels, coverage, and quality of experience for activities like streaming, gaming, and video conferencing. This data is already used by telecommunications companies, regulators, and analysts worldwide. Downdetector, known for tracking service outages across websites and apps, serves as a critical monitoring tool for streaming services, banks, and social networks through its Explorer product.

Accenture's move reflects growing demand for reliable connectivity data as businesses and governments scale AI initiatives. The consulting giant already works with major public sector clients including the US Air Force, Social Security Administration, and Department of State. While Accenture plans to operate Ookla's business as it currently does, users will be subject to new privacy policies under the acquisition.

The deal positions Accenture to offer enhanced connectivity insights to clients while maintaining Ookla's consumer-facing tools. By combining Ookla's technical expertise with Accenture's consulting capabilities, the acquisition could accelerate digital transformation efforts across industries that depend on consistent, high-quality internet performance.