In a recent revelation, Apple has taken significant steps to bolster its artificial intelligence capabilities by acquiring the French tech firm Datakaleb. The Paris-based company, known for its pioneering work in compressing AI algorithms, was bought in December 2023, following Apple's acquisition of the Canadian firm DarwinAI earlier in the year.
Like DarwinAI, Datakaleb has focused on making AI processes smaller and more energy-efficient, a crucial advancement as Apple pushes to run large language modules (LLM) entirely on iPhones. This technology could reduce reliance on expensive hardware, with sources claiming that "with compression, you can go from an Nvidia semi-processor at €10,000 to a regular STMicroelectronics chip for a few cents."
Located near the Apple Opera store in Paris, Datakaleb has not only contributed to AI in facial recognition technologies but also played a significant role during the pandemic. The company's AI was used in 2021 to monitor mask compliance at a concert hall in Cannes, showcasing its utility in real-world applications.
Despite the regulatory uncertainties around facial recognition in France, Datakaleb shifted its focus towards further AI algorithm compression. The firm, which boasts a talented team of experts including alumni from prestigious institutions such as Sorbonne University, Centrale, and Polytechnique, reported annual revenues of one million euros.
The acquisition's exact financial details remain undisclosed, but industry insiders speculate that Apple likely spent several million euros on the deal. This purchase marks another chapter in Apple's longstanding presence in Paris, which spans over four decades.
With this acquisition, Apple continues to emphasize its commitment to advancing AI technology, ensuring that its devices are not only smart but also efficient and accessible.
