Apple has discreetly acquired another artificial intelligence (AI) company, DarwinAI, a Canadian startup focused on computer vision and increasing the speed and efficiency of AI systems. Apple has been notably idle and secretive compared to other leading tech AI firms, shedding little light on potential AI initiatives in its product range.
During Apple’s Q1 earnings call, CEO Tim Cook revealed a more measured and intentional approach to AI integration. However, Cook hinted at a potential breakthrough in GenAI this year. It’s unclear whether DarwinAI will feature in Apple’s AI integration plans with the upcoming iOS 18, raising speculation over whether the acquisition was for intellectual property (IP) or a chance to bolster its AI development team with human resources.
DarwinAI’s technology has primarily been used within computer vision for manufacturing process component inspections, leading to suggestions that Apple may use DarwinAI’s IP to enhance the production of its electronic hardware. The acquisition was initially reported by Bloomberg, though Apple is yet to officially confirm the purchase. The DarwinAI domain is no longer functional, and co-founder Alexander Wong’s LinkedIn profile suggests he is now Apple’s Director of Machine Learning Research.
Apple is reportedly allocating around $1 billion annually to fund the development of Gen AI products. The company has been rumored to be internally utilizing its chatbot, Apple GPT, and an LLM named Ajax. These innovations may either be part of iOS18 or potentially power an upgraded version of Siri.
While Apple’s pace may not match that of rivals Microsoft or Google, the company’s product releases invariably have a transformative impact on innovation. Big Apple AI news and further acquisitions are anticipated in the coming months. In summary, Apple’s purchase of the Canadian AI startup, DarwinAI, indicates a strategic move towards advancing generative AI development.
