Long before WhatsApp, Rui Lopes and his friends were experimenting with mobile messaging—but their early project never took off. Born in Celorico de Basto, Rui discovered technology early, earning a Systems and Computer Engineering degree from the University of Minho. He faced multiple setbacks, including a failed attempt to launch a WhatsApp-like platform due to limited funding (€75k vs. WhatsApp’s $8M).
In 2016, Rui applied those lessons to create AgentifAI, a Braga-based AI company behind Alice, an AI assistant that handles appointments and banking transactions via voice for companies like Lusíadas Saúde, Caixa Geral de Depósitos, and BPI, serving over 8 million people.
Rui emphasizes the silent nature of success: “I don’t know anyone with great success who hasn’t failed along the way.” His current challenge? Teaching machines to speak with empathy and emotion—an effort that took years of research, investment, and teamwork.
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