Apple to acquire Czech materials science firm PlasmaSolve
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Apple has agreed to acquire Czech materials science company PlasmaSolve, according to a notice published on the European Commission's website.
The acquisition will be completed through one of Apple's subsidiaries, which will purchase the entire issued share capital of PlasmaSolve. The filing also states that Apple will hire selected employees from the company.
Founded in the Czech Republic in 2016, PlasmaSolve develops simulation software for plasma-based manufacturing and materials science. In 2023, it introduced MatSight, a software platform that models physical vapour deposition and plasma-enhanced physical vapour deposition processes, allowing manufacturers to optimise production before factory deployment.
The software can simulate the application of ultra-thin coatings on complex three-dimensional surfaces, including curved edges and buttons. Apple already uses physical vapour deposition on some of its products, including iPhone models, to improve scratch resistance.
Apple has not disclosed how it plans to integrate PlasmaSolve's technology into its manufacturing processes. However, the acquisition is expected to strengthen the company's manufacturing capabilities by enabling engineers to test new materials, coatings and production techniques before devices enter mass production.
The deal comes as Apple is reportedly developing several new hardware products, including a foldable iPhone, a redesigned anniversary iPhone, and updated Apple Watch and MacBook models. These devices are expected to feature new materials, designs and manufacturing processes that could benefit from PlasmaSolve's simulation technology.
Apple regularly acquires specialist technology companies and typically confirms such transactions only when required through regulatory filings.