Hinrik Jósafat Atlason, a management consultant teaching computer science and business courses at Reykjavik University, unexpectedly ventured into creating a new company after noticing students seeking better ways to learn course material on the go. In 2019, he and his team developed an AI-powered audio assistant called Atlas Primer that transforms documents into interactive podcasts and offers features like summaries, brainstorming tools, and audio quizzes. The app also enables users to transcribe notes while on the move, providing a flexible and accessible learning experience.
The positive reception from students motivated Atlason to turn Atlas Primer into a startup, which quickly gained recognition and made it onto Time Magazine’s list of the top 250 ed-tech companies by 2024. With up to 500 new users joining daily, the app offers a free version, a subscription model for additional downloads at $20 per month, and an enterprise version with usage-based pricing. Atlason secured funding totaling $1 million from sources like the Icelandic Technology Development Fund, venture capitalists, and sponsorships from tech giants like Microsoft and AWS.
Initially designed for educators to upload course material, Atlas Primer evolved into a student-focused interface after professors found themselves too busy to utilize the platform. The app, particularly beneficial for students with dyslexia, ADHD, and autism, converts academic content into an interactive audio environment that accommodates various learning styles. Atlason highlights the struggles faced by neurodivergent learners within the education system and underscores the far-reaching economic ramifications of neglecting adequate support for these individuals.
A study by Boston Consulting Group revealed the substantial economic impact of dyslexia, estimating a $12 billion cost to California in 2020. Families of children with dyslexia spend around $15,000 annually on supplemental support, underscoring the financial strain stemming from unmet educational needs. Atlas Primer addresses these gaps by providing a tailored, conversation-based learning environment that caters to individual student preferences, ultimately benefiting students, families, and the wider economy.
Recognizing the app’s potential to support students beyond academics, Atlason forged a partnership with American Student Assistance (ASA), a nonprofit helping students develop essential life skills and make informed career choices. Through ASA’s EvolveMe platform, Atlas Primer equips students with tools for planning their futures, emphasizing the role of technology in leveling disparities by reaching students from diverse backgrounds. Atlason’s future plans include exploring applications for small businesses and corporate learning, focusing on the utility of formal learning structures in various life contexts.
By continually innovating and adapting Atlas Primer to meet evolving educational needs, Atlason aims to enhance learning experiences for individuals across settings and circumstances. With a transformative approach to incorporating technology into education, he seeks to empower students, educators, and businesses alike through adaptable learning tools that support diverse learning styles and promote lifelong learning outcomes.
