Ikea Acquires AI Startup Geomagical Labs

In news that reads like a pre-COVID relic, Ikea said yesterday it acquired AI imaging startup Geomagical Labs for an undisclosed sum.

• Geomagical specializes in 3D imaging tech for interior design. Users can scan rooms then remove or rearrange furniture at scale.
• Ikea plans to bake Geomagical’s tech into its website and apps so shoppers can better visualize how their Kungsblomma looks on their Haugesund.

Actually, there’s a pandemic angle

Initial talks between Ikea and Geomagical likely happened long before my couch showed signs of a WFH indent. But their union arrives just as we’re adjusting to life without physical stores. Until stores reopen, Ikea can quickly enhance its online shopping experience with Geomagical’s tech.

Zoom out: Now that major fashion events are erased from the calendar, some event organizers are experimenting with virtual presentations. In the coming months, I expect more retailers will enhance their shopping apps with AI like Ikea has.