Qualcomm Boosts AI Innovation with Acquisition of VinAI’s Generative AI Division
Qualcomm has made a significant move in the tech industry by acquiring the generative AI division of VinAI, a leading AI research company based in Hanoi. This acquisition emphasizes Qualcomm’s strategy to enhance its portfolio in the growing AI tooling sector.
Details of the Acquisition
On Monday, both companies announced the acquisition, although the financial terms remain undisclosed. VinAI, founded by former DeepMind research scientist Hung Bui, specializes in a variety of generative AI technologies, including:
- Computer vision algorithms
- Language models
Qualcomm’s Commitment to AI Innovation
Jilei Hou, Qualcomm’s SVP of Engineering, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition in a press release, stating:
“This acquisition underscores our commitment to dedicating the necessary resources to R&D that makes us the driving force behind the next wave of AI innovation.”
By integrating VinAI’s talented team, Qualcomm aims to enhance its ability to deliver cutting-edge AI solutions across various industries.
About VinAI and Its Contributions
Founded in 2019, VinAI primarily focuses on developing AI-powered automotive products but also engages in advanced AI research. The company is backed by VinGroup, a prominent Vietnamese conglomerate, and is known for creating innovative solutions such as:
- In-cabin monitoring systems
- Security applications
- Smart parking solutions
In a recent interview with Forbes, Bui mentioned that VinAI employs around 200 people across its offices in Hanoi, the U.S., and Australia.
Future Prospects with Qualcomm
Bui anticipates that VinAI’s expertise will significantly contribute to Qualcomm’s diverse product lines, including software and chip solutions for smartphones, PCs, and vehicles. He noted:
“Our team’s expertise in generative AI and machine learning will help accelerate the development of innovative solutions that can transform the way we live and work.”
Following the acquisition, Bui is set to join Qualcomm, further bolstering the company’s talent pool.
Qualcomm’s Expansion Strategy
This acquisition marks Qualcomm’s second major purchase in 2023, following its acquisition of Edge Impulse, a German AI and Internet of Things company, in early March. Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon has highlighted the significance of edge AI—AI that operates directly on devices without relying on centralized data centers—as a pivotal growth area for the tech giant.
For additional insights on Qualcomm’s advancements in AI and technology, visit our Technology News section.
