1. Apple acquires Canada-based AI startup DarwinAI specializing in vision-based tech for manufacturing.
2. Several members of DarwinAI team have joined Apple’s machine learning teams in January.
3. DarwinAI had raised over $15 million in funding from various investors, including BDC Capital and Obvious Ventures.
Apple has acquired Canada-based AI startup DarwinAI, which specializes in vision-based technology to improve manufacturing efficiency. While the deal has not been officially announced, several members of DarwinAI’s team have joined Apple’s machine learning teams in January. DarwinAI had raised over $15 million in funding from investors such as BDC Capital’s Deep Tech Venture Fund, Honeywell Ventures, Obvious Ventures, and Inovia Capital, with BDC Capital confirming an exit from the company.
Bloomberg reports that DarwinAI’s techniques can make AI models smaller and faster, which could be beneficial for on-device generative AI features that Apple plans to introduce in iOS 18 this year. Apple has been lagging behind competitors like OpenAI, Google, Meta, and Microsoft in implementing GenAI-powered features but CEO Tim Cook has stated plans to introduce such features later this year. Apple has been investing in GenAI efforts, with job listings suggesting the company is exploring AI integration in areas such as Siri, developer tools, and customer support.
Apple has yet to comment on the acquisition of DarwinAI. However, the addition of the startup’s technology could help Apple enhance manufacturing efficiency and introduce new AI-powered features in its products. The acquisition aligns with Apple’s efforts to invest in AI technology and catch up with competitors in the field. Stay tuned for updates on how Apple plans to leverage DarwinAI’s technology in its future products and services.