Apple Emerges as the Leading AI Investor with 32 Startups Acquired in 2023
Apple has solidified its position as a frontrunner in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) by purchasing a staggering 32 AI startups in 2023, surpassing its rivals such as Google, Microsoft, and Amazon, according to a recent report. This significant move suggests that Apple may soon take the lead in generative AI rather than playing catch-up to other major tech companies.
While Google acquired 21 startups in the AI space, Meta purchased 18, Microsoft obtained 17, and Amazon secured 10. These numbers indicate Apple’s determination to become a dominant force in AI technology.
Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, has been increasingly vocal about the company’s endeavors and aspirations in the realm of AI. He emphasized Apple’s commitment to investing in technologies that will shape the future, including AI, during a recent quarterly earnings call. Furthermore, Cook announced that Apple would share more details about its ongoing work in AI later this year.
With these substantial acquisitions, Apple gains access to top-tier talent, innovative technologies, and a competitive advantage in rapidly evolving AI domains. By proactively identifying and investing in emerging trends and technologies, Apple solidifies its foothold in the AI landscape.
Some noteworthy AI startups acquired by Apple include Voysis, a company specializing in digital voice assistants for enhanced natural language comprehension. Apple acquired Voysis in 2020 with the aim of improving Siri, its virtual assistant. Additionally, Apple purchased WaveOne, whose technology facilitates video compression, in March 2023. Other notable acquisitions include Emotient, Laserlike, Drive.AI, and AI.Music, with elements from these startups already incorporated into Apple devices like iPhones, Apple Watches, and Macs.
While companies like Google and Samsung have been more proactive in bringing generative AI to customers and devices, Apple has been leveraging AI and machine learning extensively for product development. It turns out that Apple also leads in equity and add-on investment in AI technology since 2017, with 21% of its portfolio dedicated to AI compared to Microsoft’s 12% and Alphabet’s (Google’s parent company) 8%.
Apple’s commitment to expanding its AI capabilities extends beyond its current efforts. The company plans to continue acquiring AI startups and has recently set its sights on Brighter.AI, a German startup focused on Vision Pro. This signifies a promising future for Apple in the realm of AI.
In conclusion, Apple’s aggressive acquisition of AI startups positions the company as a pioneer and leader in the AI space. With a significant number of startups under its belt, Apple gains access to groundbreaking technologies and exceptional talent, augmenting its ability to shape the future of AI. As Apple aligns its efforts with ongoing developments and investments, it becomes increasingly clear that the tech giant’s AI ambitions are reaching new heights.
