Apple’s push to offer on-device AI tools on their devices continues to move forward, as the Cupertino firm has acquired artificial intelligence startup Datakalab, which specializes in algorithm compression and embedded AI systems.
The purchase was finalized on December 17, 2023, as found in a European Commission filing first found by French publication Challenges (via iPhoneSoft). The amount Apple paid for the firm has not been announced.
Apple’s purchase of the AI firm is just another piece of Apple’s strategy to bring on-device AI technology to the iPhone and other devices. We’ll likely see at least some of Apple’s new AI features debut alongside the release of iOS 18.
Datakalab was founded in 2016 by Xavier and Lucas Fischer and it focuses on low-power, high-efficiency deep-learning algorithms that can function on a device, without the need to access a cloud-based systems. This approach is due to Apple’s commitment to user privacy and data security by processing as much as it can on-device to minimize data risks.
Datakalab has been involved in a few high-profile projects, including projects collaborating with Disney and the French government. One project involved developing technology to use using facial recognition and visual data to provide real-time analysis of audience reactions at film screenings.
On Sunday, Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman said Apple is working on developing its large language model (LLM), running on-device instead of in the cloud. The approach is designed to prioritize speed and privacy.
Gurman said that since Apple’s AI tools will run on-device, they may be less capable in certain instances than its direct cloud-based rivals. However, Gurman also suggested that the company could remedy those shortcomings by licensing technology from Google and other AI service providers.
In March, Gurman said Apple is continuing its discussions with Google and OpenAI to use their generative large-language models to power new AI features for the iPhone in iOS 18. The report says no formal announcement is expected until summer.
Apple CEO Tim Cook has promised that the company will “break new ground” in AI this year, and Apple is widely rumored to be working on new AI capabilities for its upcoming iPhone operating system. Apple is reportedly placing its focus on AI features that can operate solely on-device, requiring no internet connection.
Gurman says Apple’s marketing strategy for its AI technology will highlight how the technology can help people in their daily lives. We should get a better idea about how Apple will position its AI features for iOS 18 at the company’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC24) in June.