Intel and DigitalBridge Group announced today the establishment of Articul8 AI, an independent company focused on providing enterprise customers with a comprehensive, vertically-optimized, and secure generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) software platform. The platform ensures that customer data, training, and inference remain within the enterprise security perimeter, offering deployment options in the cloud, on-premises, or through a hybrid model.
The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed by the chipmaker, and it remains unclear whether Intel will retain a majority stake in the newly-formed venture. However, Intel assures that Articul8 will operate with an independent board of directors, while Intel itself will remain a shareholder.
Articul8 AI by Intel and DigitalBridge has been built upon intellectual property (IP) and technology developed at Intel, and the two companies will maintain strategic alignment on go-to-market opportunities. They will also collaborate to drive GenAI adoption in enterprise settings. Arun Subramaniyan, former vice president and general manager in Intel’s Data Center and AI Group, assumes the role of CEO at Articul8.
Pat Gelsinger, Intel CEO, expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, “With its deep AI and HPC domain knowledge and enterprise-grade GenAI deployments, Articul8 is well positioned to deliver tangible business outcomes for Intel and our broader ecosystem of customers and partners. As Intel accelerates AI everywhere, we look forward to our continued collaboration with Articul8.”
DigitalBridge Ventures, the venture initiative of DigitalBridge, played a lead role in investing in Articul8. Fin Capital, Mindset Ventures, Communitas Capital, GiantLeap Capital, GS Futures, and Zain Group are among the additional investors supporting Articul8.
Marc Ganzi, DigitalBridge CEO, emphasized the significance of Articul8’s scalable GenAI software platform, stating, “Every global enterprise today is challenged to integrate GenAI capabilities into their workflows. Articul8 has built a scalable and easy-to-deploy GenAI software platform that is already enabling enterprises to unlock value from their proprietary data. We see GenAI as a pivotal force driving digital infrastructure, and we are pleased to collaborate with Intel to support Articul8’s growth.”
Intel’s move to form Articul8 stems from its collaboration with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) on corporate AI technology. Intel utilized its supercomputing capabilities to develop a generative AI system that reads text and images using a mix of open-source and internally developed technology. The system was then adapted to run within BCG’s data centers, addressing privacy and security concerns.
This strategic move aligns with the increasing demand for AI solutions in the tech industry. According to IDC, AI spending is expected to reach $55 billion by 2023. Articul8’s focus on keeping data within enterprise data centers addresses growing concerns about privacy and security, differentiating it from cloud computing alternatives.
Intel’s previous success in spinning out Mobileye Global and its plans for an eventual initial public offering of its programmable chip unit demonstrate a strategic focus on core business activities. Establishing Articul8 AI by Intel as an independent entity dedicated to AI underscores Intel’s commitment to innovation and staying ahead in the rapidly evolving AI space.
The formation of Articul8 could set a precedent in the tech industry, inspiring other companies to create separate entities focused solely on AI solutions. As the demand for AI continues to rise, this move not only highlights the importance of AI in driving technological advancements but also opens opportunities for new players to enter and compete in the market.
In conclusion, Articul8 AI by Intel represents a pivotal advancement in the realm of enterprise GenAI, showcasing a commitment to innovation and security in the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. Supported by notable investors and offering solutions to critical customer concerns, Articul8 has the potential to disrupt the market and solidify Intel’s leadership in AI technology. The industry will be closely watching Articul8’s evolution and anticipating further developments in this dynamic and fast-growing sector.
