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Acquisition · AI Software · Modular · Qualcomm
Qualcomm agreed to acquire AI startup Modular for approximately $4 billion in a stock deal, issuing up to 19.2 million shares, aiming to expand its AI software capabilities for data centers and edge devices.
Qualcomm's acquisition combines its chip technologies with Modular’s open software platform, which allows developers to build AI models once and deploy them across various processor architectures without rewriting the models. This integration will facilitate more efficient and cost-effective deployment of AI applications across CPUs, GPUs, NPUs, and custom chips for developers, cloud providers, and enterprises.
Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon stated the acquisition is a milestone for the company and the broader AI industry, adding that future AI systems require open, developer-friendly platforms that work across multiple computing environments. Modular co-founder and CEO Chris Lattner confirmed the collaboration with Qualcomm will make AI development more accessible and improve performance for developers.
The transaction, valued at around $4 billion based on Qualcomm’s recent share price, involves issuing up to 19.2 million shares to Modular’s equity holders and is expected to close in the second half of 2026, pending customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.
