Apple has agreed to acquire PlasmaSolve, a Czech materials science company that develops simulation software for plasma-based manufacturing processes. The transaction was disclosed through a notice published on the European Commission’s website.
According to the filing, an Apple subsidiary will acquire all outstanding shares of PlasmaSolve and offer employment to certain members of the company’s workforce.
Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. Apple has also not publicly detailed how PlasmaSolve’s technology or employees will be incorporated into its operations.
Founded in 2016, PlasmaSolve develops software that helps manufacturers design, simulate and optimize processes involving plasma technologies.
Its primary product, MatSight, is a collection of applications designed to simulate vapor deposition processes involving metals. These processes can be used to apply thin layers of material to a product’s surface.
Manufacturers can use simulation software to evaluate how changes in materials, equipment and production settings could affect a coating before carrying out the physical manufacturing process.
This approach can reduce the time and expense required to test different configurations while helping manufacturers improve coating consistency, durability and production efficiency.
Plasma-based vapor deposition processes are relevant to consumer electronics manufacturing because they can be used to create thin protective films and specialized surface finishes.
Apple has used vapor deposition technology across several products, including iPhone models, to apply durable thin films intended to reduce scratching and other forms of surface damage.
Acquiring PlasmaSolve could provide Apple with additional in-house expertise in materials modeling, surface engineering and advanced manufacturing simulation. However, Apple has not announced specific product plans related to the acquisition.
PlasmaSolve’s website remains active and includes information about research and grant funding the company has received for its materials science work.
The acquisition continues Apple’s practice of purchasing specialized technology companies and bringing engineering teams into the organization to support product development and manufacturing capabilities.
KEY QUOTE:
Apple Inc. (“Apple”), through a subsidiary, will acquire the entire issued share capital of PlasmaSolve s.r.o. (“PlasmaSolve”) and offer employment to and hire certain PlasmaSolve employees. PlasmaSolve develops solutions, including a plasma simulation software, to design and optimize plasma-based manufacturing processes. Apple (together with its group companies) designs, manufactures and markets smartphones, personal computers, tablets, wearables and accessories, and sells a variety of related services.
European Commission Notice
