Apple is set to unveil a range of AI features in iOS 18 at WWDC 2024 on June 10. Reports suggest that some of these features will be locally run on an iPhone, eliminating the need for cloud processing. To enhance these features, Apple has recently acquired French startup Datakalab, which specializes in AI and computer vision technology.
Founded seven years ago by brothers Xavier and Lucas Fischer, Datakalab had between 10-20 employees prior to its acquisition. The official website of Datakalab is no longer active, but the company previously collaborated with the French government in May 2020 during COVID to deploy AI tools in Paris transportation systems for monitoring mask usage. It also worked with companies such as Disney. While there has been no official confirmation of the acquisition from either Datakalab or Apple, reports suggest that details of the deal were submitted to the European Commission.
The founders of Datakalab did not join Apple, but multiple other employees transitioned to the tech giant. This acquisition aligns with Apple’s plans to incorporate AI features into iOS 18. Given Datakalab’s expertise in computer vision technology, Apple may leverage these skills for its Vision Pro initiatives in the future.
