Apple has reportedly acquired Datakalab, a Paris, France specializing in artificial intelligence compression and computer vision technology. According to French business magazine Challenges, the acquisition was finalized in December.
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Datakalab described itself as “experts in low-power, runtime-efficient, deep learning algorithms” that run on the device.
On its LinkedIn page, Datakalab emphasizes that it “compresses and adapts industry-leading compression to develop embedded computer vision that is fast, cost-effective, and accurate.” Before its acquisition by Apple, Datakalab had between 10 and 20 employees.
Datakalab partnered with the French government in May 2020 to deploy AI tools on Paris’s transport systems to check whether people were wearing face masks. The company has also worked with Disney and other partners in the past.
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While neither Apple nor DatakaLab has acknowledged the acquisition, Challenges says the deal was reported to the European Commission this month. The report says that Datakalab’s two founders did not join Apple, but several other employees made the jump. Datakalab also held multiple patents related to compression and AI vision technology.
The acquisition comes as Apple is expected to bring a suite of AI features to iOS 18 later this year. Datakalab also developed advanced vision-based technology that could play a role in Apple’s Vision Pro ambitions in the future. The company’s advanced facial recognition technology could also contribute to things like Photos and Face ID.
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Computer vision technology , developed by Apple's Datakalab, allows computers to ' see ' and interpret the visual world and has the potential to transform digital interaction. By increasing the ability of computers to recognize and process images, users will be able to expand their capabilities in interacting with digital technology . For example, computer vision technology can be used to develop more advanced and intuitive user interfaces. Users could control their applications and devices through gestures or even with their facial expressions, creating a more natural and intuitive experience. In addition, computer vision technology can enable the development of more customized and personalized digital experiences. Computers could recognize users and tailor their experiences according to their preferences and needs.
Source: 9to5mac
