According to a recent report from CNBC, Apple is close to finalizing a deal with Prompt AI, a computer vision startup. This acquisition focuses on gaining both their talent and technology.
At an all-hands meeting, Prompt’s leadership informed employees about the deal. They mentioned that those not joining Apple would receive a reduced salary and were encouraged to seek jobs elsewhere. Investors were also told they wouldn’t fully recover their investments in this transaction.
Prompt AI’s main product, Seemour, uses AI within security cameras to identify people, pets, and objects. It alerts users about unusual activities by sending text descriptions based on the camera’s feed.
Acquiring talent instead of entire companies, known as “acquihiring,” has become popular among tech firms in the AI field. This method allows companies to sidestep tougher regulatory scrutiny. For instance, Microsoft recently spent around $650 million to license tech from Inflection AI and take on its staff, while Google has employed similar tactics with various startups.
The Seemour app will be discontinued following the acquisition, with users being notified about data deletion and privacy safeguards. Interestingly, Prompt had trouble creating a sustainable business model and had been approached by companies like xAI and Neuralink.
Though the financial details remain unclear, these moves indicate a trend where major tech companies are increasingly focused on acquiring skilled teams and innovative technologies.
In the broader tech landscape, social media discussions highlight growing concern about corporate acquisitions and their impacts on innovation. Users are worried that as these companies consolidate talent and tech, it could stifle competition and creativity in the AI sector.
For further insights on tech acquisitions and their implications, you might check out reports from TechCrunch or The Verge for additional context and updates.