Qualcomm aims to standardize edge AI for IoT

Qualcomm is focusing on improving edge AI systems, moving away from custom setups to more scalable AI-driven platforms. This shift aims to enhance how industrial equipment and computing devices function at the edges of enterprise networks. On May 10, Qualcomm announced it would acquire Edge Impulse, a company that provides AI development tools for Internet of Things (IoT) devices. This acquisition is part of Qualcomm's strategy to create a stronger edge AI software ecosystem. They have also made several key acquisitions and partnerships to support this goal. In March 2024, Qualcomm purchased Foundries.io, specializing in embedded Linux OS tools. By October 2024, they launched the IQ Series, which offers industrial-grade processing solutions. More recently, in February 2025, Qualcomm introduced the Dragonwing brand, focused on industrial AI. They also established a collaboration with Palantir for enterprise AI applications in March 2025. These efforts address longstanding issues in IoT product scalability. AI at the edge can enhance operations, allowing real-time data processing and improving overall efficiency for companies. This is particularly attractive for businesses, as edge AI can lead to better resource planning and increased automation. However, there are challenges. The diverse hardware in operational technologies requires customized solutions, which can slow down development. Unlike consumer devices that benefit from standardized platforms, IoT products often need specific applications that are hard to scale. Qualcomm aims to tackle these issues with off-the-shelf edge AI platforms that allow developers to concentrate on creating applications rather than managing complex embedded systems. The combination of Foundries.io tools, Dragonwing chips, and Edge Impulse capabilities is designed to streamline this process. Edge Impulse, in particular, helps simplify the development of AI models that can be deployed across various edge devices. Their community of developers plays a crucial role in expanding the use of edge AI. Overall, Qualcomm's investments signal a significant shift in the industry. By providing a robust platform for edge AI, they hope to redefine how businesses leverage technology, moving away from traditional hardware sales to offering software and solutions that speed up the development process. This could change the landscape for IoT products, making them more intelligent and efficient.