Qualcomm has acquired the generative AI division of VinAI, a leading AI research company based in Hanoi, for an undisclosed amount. This strategic move reinforces Qualcomm’s commitment to advancing AI technologies and expanding its presence in the AI tooling sector.
Founded in 2019 by former DeepMind research scientist Hung Bui, VinAI specializes in developing generative AI solutions, including computer vision algorithms and language models. The company is backed by VinGroup, a prominent Vietnamese conglomerate, and focuses on AI-powered automotive products such as in-cabin monitoring, security, and smart parking systems.
Jilei Hou, Qualcomm’s senior vice president of engineering, highlighted the importance of the acquisition in a press release: “This acquisition underscores our commitment to dedicating the necessary resources to R&D that makes us the driving force behind the next wave of AI innovation. By bringing in high-caliber talent from VinAI, we are strengthening our ability to deliver cutting-edge AI solutions that will benefit a wide range of industries and consumers.”
VinAI’s generative AI expertise will be integrated into Qualcomm’s existing product ecosystem, enhancing its software and chip solutions for smartphones, PCs, and automotive applications. CEO Hung Bui expressed enthusiasm about the transition, stating, “Our team’s expertise in generative AI and machine learning will help accelerate the development of innovative solutions that can transform the way we live and work.”
Bui, who currently serves as VinAI’s CEO, will officially join Qualcomm upon completion of the acquisition.
This marks Qualcomm’s second AI-focused acquisition in 2025, following its purchase of Edge Impulse, a German AI and IoT company, in early March. Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon has emphasized the growing importance of edge AI—technology that enables AI processing directly on devices without relying on data centers—as a key driver for Qualcomm’s future growth.
With this latest acquisition, Qualcomm is positioning itself at the forefront of AI innovation, further solidifying its role in shaping the next generation of AI-driven technologies.
