Qualcomm acquires generative AI division of Vietnamese startup VinAI | TechCrunch
Apr 01, 2025 - techcrunch.com
Qualcomm has acquired the generative AI division of VinAI, an AI research company based in Hanoi, for an undisclosed amount. This acquisition is part of Qualcomm's strategy to expand its presence in the AI tooling sector. VinAI, founded by former DeepMind research scientist Hung Bui in 2019, specializes in generative AI technologies such as computer vision algorithms and language models. The company, backed by Vietnamese conglomerate VinGroup, focuses on AI-powered automotive products and higher-level AI research, offering solutions like in-cabin monitoring and smart parking systems. Following the acquisition, Bui will join Qualcomm, and VinAI's expertise is expected to enhance Qualcomm's product lines, including software and chips for smartphones, PCs, and vehicles.
This acquisition is Qualcomm's second in 2023, following its purchase of Edge Impulse, a German AI and IoT company. Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon has emphasized the importance of edge AI, which allows AI to run on devices without relying on data center infrastructure, as a significant growth area for the company. The integration of VinAI's team and technology is anticipated to accelerate the development of innovative AI solutions across various industries.
Key takeaways:
Qualcomm has acquired the generative AI division of VinAI, an AI research company based in Hanoi, to expand its AI tooling sector.
VinAI, founded by former DeepMind scientist Hung Bui, focuses on AI-powered automotive products and higher-level AI research.
VinAI's CEO, Hung Bui, will join Qualcomm following the acquisition, which is expected to enhance Qualcomm's software and chips for smartphones, PCs, and vehicles.
This acquisition is Qualcomm's second this year, following its purchase of Edge Impulse, highlighting its focus on edge AI technologies.
