Google Inc (GOOG) looks to have acquired United Kingdom startup Redux

The Verge had some hands-on time with the company's tech past year, trying out a tablet which vibrated its screen to function as a speaker, as well as a number of displays that used haptic feedback to mimic the feel of buttons, sliders, and dials.

Google did not immediately respond to a Fortune request for comment and clarification about the apparent acquisition.

Alphabet's Google has bought a United Kingdom -based startup that could dramatically change how you listen to music on your smartphones.

It remains unclear when Alphabet bought the sound specialist, but the tech-giant confirmed that it obtained the shares on December 13.

The technology could give future Pixel smartphones an advantage over their iPhone rivals - not to mention other Android devices - as they attempt to deliver more display in a physically smaller package. Redux is able to turn screens into a speakers by vibrating the screen itself. According to Crunchbase, Redux has also previously raised more than $5 million in funding before it was acquired by Google.

At the time, it said the sound quality was 'decent'. However, it is believed the deal went through in August.

So far, Redux has only been able to integrate its technologies inside PCs and some infotainment systems for vehicles, but none have made its way to commercially available mobile devices yet. While the external space a speaker demands is one thing, it also occupies room inside the phone. Redux shutdown its website after Google's acquisition.

It has also emerged that the company quietly purchased a United Kingdom startup called Redux in August. The feature would eliminate the need for separate speakers but still let users play audio, potentially creating opportunities for Google to develop new smartphone design concepts.