Apple recently took a significant step towards enhancing its artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities by acquiring the Canadian startup DarwinAI, as reported by Bloomberg. This move could have significant implications for the tech giant, which boasts a trillion-dollar valuation.
Founded in 2017, DarwinAI specialized in two crucial areas within the AI sector: model inspection and machine learning techniques for creating streamlined AI systems. Public records reveal that over a span of five years, DarwinAI secured a total of $15.5 million in funding, with major collaborators such as Lockheed Martin and Intel.
Acquisition and Transition
Upon the acquisition, DarwinAI's online presence swiftly disappeared, with the deactivation of their website and social media accounts. Numerous former employees of DarwinAI have reportedly shifted to Apple's AI division, including prominent AI researcher Alexander Wong, who has taken on a directorial role.
Future Plans and Speculation
While Apple has acknowledged the acquisition, no specific details have been provided regarding the company's intentions or future strategies. This move may signify a broader initiative by Apple to embed AI functionalities throughout its product range, potentially including the forthcoming iOS 18 and macOS 15 operating systems. It is evident that Apple is striving to narrow the gap with competitors like Microsoft and Google, possibly expanding into generative AI and integrating it with core applications such as Siri and Shortcuts. Speculation suggests that Apple is actively exploring large language models and securing new patents for cutting-edge designs, hinting at the development of more sophisticated Apple products in the future.
