Highlights

• Apple acquired French AI startup Datakalab, specializing in on-device AI.
• Datakalab’s expertise in computer vision could enhance Apple’s product security and speed.
• Acquisition confirmed by a European Commission filing in December.
• Datakalab previously collaborated with the French government and Disney on AI projects.

Apple has reportedly acquired a French artificial intelligence (AI) startup called Datakalab, which specializes in on-device computer vision technology.

The acquisition, noted in a European Commission filing, is said to have taken place in December last year.

Add that scalp into Apple’s evergrowing acquisitions in the AI space.

On-Device AI Focus

What’s so special about this one though?

Datakalab, founded in 2016 by Xavier and Lucas Fischer, primarily focuses on making AI work efficiently without relying on cloud systems – a concept known as on-device AI.

By running AI capabilities on the device itself, rather than through the cloud, Apple aims to improve the speed and security of its products’ AI features.

That is pretty nifty, all things considered, and Apple’s immense software and hardware integration is surely going to play a starring role in it.

Computer Vision Expertise

But there’s more.

Datakalab’s expertise lies in computer vision ie. using machine learning and neural networks to teach computers and systems to derive meaningful information from digital images.

It could theoretically give Apple a significant advantage over its competitors.

The startup has previously worked with the French government to add AI tools to the Paris transportation systems for face mask detection, as well as with Disney on other projects.

Expanding AI Portfolio

While the amount spent by Apple on acquiring Datakalab is unknown, the European Commission filing confirms that Apple now holds a 100% stake in the company.

This acquisition is part of Apple’s ongoing efforts to expand its AI capabilities, with reports suggesting that the tech giant acquired a staggering 32 AI startups in 2023 alone, significantly more than its rivals like Google.

FAQs

What does Datakalab specialize in?

Datakalab is known for its expertise in on-device AI and computer vision, focusing on processing data directly on devices to enhance efficiency and security without relying on cloud systems.

Why is Apple’s acquisition of Datakalab significant?

The acquisition allows Apple to integrate advanced computer vision technologies into its devices, potentially improving the functionality and user experience of future Apple products significantly.

What projects has Datakalab worked on before being acquired by Apple?

Before the acquisition, Datakalab had notable projects including implementing AI for face mask detection in Paris’s transportation systems and working with Disney on various AI initiatives.

How does the acquisition fit into Apple’s broader AI strategy?

Apple’s purchase of Datakalab is part of a larger effort to bolster its AI capabilities, with the company acquiring numerous AI startups to stay competitive and innovative in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

What does the acquisition mean for Apple’s competitors?

With Datakalab’s technology, Apple could gain a competitive edge in on-device AI applications, setting a higher standard for privacy and functionality that competitors will need to match.

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