Apple has expanded its presence in artificial intelligence (AI) with the acquisition of Paris-based AI tech startup, Datakalab. The deal, completed on December 17, was quietly announced in a filing with the European Commission and reported by French media. This move aligns with Apple's reported focus on AI. Datakalab, established in 2016 by Xavier Fischer and Lucas Fischer, specializes in developing efficient AI algorithms that consume less power, making them well-suited for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. According to their LinkedIn page, Datakalab offers industry-leading compression and adaptation, enabling the implementation of integrated computer vision that is fast, cost-effective, and accurate. This acquisition is likely part of Apple's larger strategy to introduce advanced AI capabilities to its devices, starting with the upcoming iOS 18 release. According to PYMNTS, Apple researchers have developed a new AI system called ReALM (Reference Resolution As Language Modeling), which has the potential to revolutionize how voice assistants understand and respond to ambiguous references and contextual clues.

ReALM simplifies the complex task of interpreting screen-based visual cues by utilizing advanced large language models. This software is part of a broader effort to enhance AI-driven voice communication, which could have various commercial applications. AI researcher, Dan Faggella, who is not affiliated with Apple, commented on the potential impact of these advancements, stating, "While some chatbots currently frustrate customers, developing AI systems that can rapidly and effectively answer simple questions and improve the customer experience could lead to greater customer loyalty and increased sales. " Furthermore, Bloomberg reported on March 18 that Apple is in talks with Google to integrate Google's AI engine into the iPhone. Sources familiar with the matter revealed that Apple is considering licensing Google's Gemini AI models to enhance the capabilities of upcoming iPhone software features set to launch this year. The report also mentioned that Apple has explored collaboration possibilities with OpenAI and has contemplated incorporating its AI model.