Qualcomm acquires generative AI division of Vietnamese startup VinAI

Qualcomm has taken a significant step into the realm of AI by acquiring VinAI's generative AI division, a move announced on Monday. The financial details of the deal remain under wraps, but the acquisition is a clear signal of Qualcomm's intent to deepen its roots in the AI tooling industry.

VinAI, a Hanoi-based AI research outfit, was launched in 2019 by Hung Bui, a former researcher at DeepMind. The company has made a name for itself with its work on generative AI, developing everything from computer vision algorithms to sophisticated language models. The firm's focus, however, extends beyond research to practical applications, particularly in the automotive sector, where it offers solutions like in-cabin monitoring, security, and smart parking systems. VinAI is supported by VinGroup, a major Vietnamese conglomerate, and operates not just in Hanoi but also has offices in the U.S. and Australia, employing around 200 people.

Qualcomm's Vision for VinAI

According to Qualcomm's Senior Vice President of Engineering, Jilei Hou, this acquisition is a testament to the company's commitment to advancing AI innovation. "By integrating VinAI's top-notch talent into our team, we are poised to deliver groundbreaking AI solutions across various industries and to consumers," Hou stated in a press release.

Hung Bui, who will transition to Qualcomm post-acquisition, expressed enthusiasm about the future collaborations. He believes VinAI's expertise in generative AI and machine learning will fast-track the development of innovative products for Qualcomm's range, including software and chips for smartphones, PCs, and vehicles. "Our team's knowledge will help revolutionize how we live and work," Bui remarked.

Expanding Qualcomm's AI Portfolio

This acquisition marks Qualcomm's second foray into AI this year, following the purchase of Edge Impulse, a U.S.-based AI and Internet of Things company, back in March. Qualcomm's CEO, Cristiano Amon, has highlighted edge AI, which operates independently of data centers, as a significant growth area for the company.

Updated 4/2 9:52 a.m. Pacific: An earlier version of this article mistakenly identified Edge Impulse as a German company. The correct location is San Jose, and we apologize for the confusion.

With VinAI's generative AI division now under its belt, Qualcomm is not just expanding its AI capabilities but also setting the stage for what could be the next big wave in technology and innovation.