Apple has acquired DarwinAI, a Canadian AI startup specializing in developing smaller and more efficient AI systems. This acquisition marks a significant step towards integrating on-device AI capabilities into upcoming product lineups. Expect Apple to showcase these AI features in Siri, Shortcuts, Messages, and more during WWDC 2024.
Generative AI has dominated discussions as one of the most popular and trending topics for almost a year now. The competition for on-device AI supremacy is intensifying, with Apple responding to Google’s recent announcement about the Gemini Nano model. Quietly, Apple embarked on an AI startup acquisition spree to outpace its competitors. According to Bloomberg, the Cupertino tech giant acquired DarwinAI, a Canadian AI startup, earlier this year to bolster its AI team.
DarwinAI excels in developing smaller, faster, and more efficient AI systems. Additionally, it has pioneered AI technology for inspecting components during the manufacturing process.
Following the acquisition, DarwinAI’s website and social media accounts have been taken offline. Dozens of former DarwinAI employees, including AI researcher Alexander Wong, have reportedly joined Apple’s Artificial Intelligence team. Wong, who played a pivotal role in building DarwinAI, is now a director in Apple’s AI team.
Apple typically keeps its acquisitions and future plans under wraps, merely stating, “Apple buys smaller technology companies from time to time.” This cryptic statement does not divulge specific purposes or upcoming strategies. However, it is likely a significant move by Apple to integrate on-device AI features into its forthcoming software versions and product lineup.
While Google, Microsoft, and other competitors have already established themselves as frontrunners in the AI space, Apple is striving to catch up. Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, has confirmed that Generative AI features from Apple are on the horizon later this year. It’s evident that Apple is dedicating considerable efforts to develop AI features for its next-generation iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS 15 operating systems.
To compete with the likes of OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Microsoft’s Bing, Apple must integrate generative AI into its product lineup. Reports suggest that Apple is currently testing large language models, with AI features expected to be incorporated into Siri, Apple Music, the Shortcuts app, Messages, and more.
In line with its commitment to privacy, Apple intends to run AI features on-device. DarwinAI’s expertise in developing smaller AI systems could prove invaluable in this endeavor. With WWDC 2024 approaching, we won’t have to wait long to see how Apple plans to leverage its AI advancements in upcoming software updates and product releases.
