This French startup is acquired by Apple for on-device AI processing: how this may benefit the iPhone 16 variants

Datakalab, an artificial intelligence (AI) firm located in Paris, has been bought by Apple. The Cupertino-based tech giant anticipates using this purchase to help integrate on-device AI capabilities into its upcoming September iPhone 16 models.

But first, the corporation is rumored to unveil its iOS 18 operating system, which will include these new AI functions.

The manufacturer of iPhones is probably going to reveal its next-generation operating system at WWDC 2024, its annual developer conference, which is scheduled to begin on June 10.
According to a recent report by Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, Apple will exclusively provide tools that analyze data on-device, in contrast to other big AI services that operate on the cloud.
How AI functions for iPhones might be facilitated by Datakalab
Datakalab is an expert in embedded AI systems and algorithm compression. A MacRumors rumor claims that the deal was completed in December 2023. According to the story, Apple provided confirmation of the purchase in a file to the European Commission (French magazines Challenges and iPhoneSoft noticed).

Xavier and Lucas Fischer founded Datakalab in 2016 and concentrated on developing deep learning algorithms with minimal power consumption and great efficiency. These algorithms work independently of cloud-based infrastructure.
Prior to being acquired, Datakalab was involved in a number of well-known initiatives, such as partnerships with Disney and the French government.
The business created technology that uses visual data and face recognition to analyze human emotions. Later, during movie screenings, this data was used to track in real time the responses of the crowd.
Apple’s interest in the business is probably mostly due to its experience compressing neural networks so they can function well on portable devices like smartphones and tablets.
Although the article did not corroborate the transaction’s financial specifics, it does imply that Apple is undoubtedly implementing this move as part of a larger plan to integrate more advanced AI technologies into its products. It comprises those that iOS 18 is anticipated to release.
The on-device data processing strategy is consistent with Apple’s dedication to secure data, user privacy, and dependable performance. The business can reduce the chance of data breaches and guarantee quicker processing times by handling data locally.