Intel Chases Machine Learning with Movidius Acquisition

Its Myriad 2 family of Vision Processor Units (VPUs) are based on a sub-1W processing architecture, backed by a memory subsystem capable of feeding the processor array as well as hardware acceleration to support large-scale operations. Google worked with Qualcomm to make ready the consumer versions of Tango technology for phones and tablets, and it seemed that Movidius disappeared from the equation. Movidius was also close to releasing a dedicated VR headset with Lenovo earlier this year.

Intel extended its shopping spree this week by announcing the acquisition of Movidius, a company developing computer vision processing technology for autonomous drones.

In a blog post, Intel’s new technology chief Josh Walden named these areas of deployment alongside robotics and digital security cameras. It also brings algorithms required for deep learning, depth processing, navigation and mapping, and natural interactions, and also broad expertise in embedded computer vision and machine intelligence. This soon-to-be-acquired company’s main focus is computer vision and artificial intelligence, making it a seemingly smart fit for achieving Intel’s goals. In January, Movidius announced a deal with Google Inc.to supply a chip that will be used in a yet-to-be-announced mobile device from the search giant.

When the computers can actually see and understand the world around them this will enable them to be autonomous.

The acquisition is in-line with Intel‘s RealSense vision and strategy.

With the PC market in long-term decline, Intel wants to be at the forefront of emerging technologies to create new markets for its microprocessors.

“Computer vision will trigger a Cambrian Explosion of compute, with Intel at the forefront of this new wave of computing, enabled by RealSense in conjunction with Movidius and our full suite of perceptual computing technologies”.

The company went through a management change in 2013 with the appointment of Remi El-Ouazzane as CEO and the relocation of its headquarters to Silicon Valley.

Intel Corp. aims to boost its efforts to make all manner of devices from drones to virtual reality headsets able to see better with the acquisition of machine vision processor chip maker Movidius Ltd.