Apple is focusing on Prompt AI to enhance its smart home devices.

crypthub

3 days ago

Acquisition of Prompt AI by Apple

Apple is nearing a deal to acquire Prompt AI, a computer vision startup, to bolster its smart home capabilities and AI advancements. This acquisition focuses on acquiring talent and technology, aligning with Apple’s strategy of targeted acquisitions rather than large-scale purchases. The deal, reportedly in late-stage talks, indicates a focused approach to shaping Apple’s AI offerings. Prompt AI’s founders informed employees about the impending agreement and its implications.

Prompt AI's Technology and Focus

Founded in 2023, Prompt AI developed Seemour, an app utilizing sophisticated computer vision to identify individuals, pets, and objects via home security cameras. The app's ability to send alerts and provide information through a conversational interface highlights its potential for transforming home monitoring. Despite the technical success of the app, Prompt AI struggled to establish a sustainable business model, ultimately deciding to delete user data to uphold privacy standards which aligns with Apple's values.

Apple's AI Strategy and Acquisitions

Unlike competitors, Apple favors acquiring smaller AI and vision startups to integrate their expertise into new products, a strategy often termed “acquihires.” This cautious approach, while focused on talent acquisition, has drawn criticism for potentially hindering Apple’s progress in generative AI. Previous acquisitions, such as Xnor.AI, have demonstrated this approach, and the Prompt AI deal represents a continuation of this focused strategy.