IBM Launches Watsonx AI Labs and Acquires Seek AI to Boost Enterprise AI Development
IBM has unveiled Watsonx AI Labs, a New York City-based startup incubator focused on supporting AI developers and accelerating AI adoption in enterprises. Alongside this launch, IBM acquired Seek AI, a New York startup specializing in natural language analysis of business data.
Watsonx, which debuted in 2023, has established itself in the enterprise generative AI space. The new AI Labs will serve as an accelerator, offering AI developers access to IBM’s expertise and Watsonx tools to create business applications. The initiative targets key enterprise areas such as customer service, supply chain management, cybersecurity, and responsible AI governance.
Locating the AI Labs in New York City taps into a vibrant ecosystem of over 2,000 AI startups and a growing AI workforce. Seek AI will operate from the same One Madison Avenue innovation center and play a central role in the Labs’ efforts. It will collaborate with IBM clients to integrate AI capabilities within IBM’s automation platform.
Supporting AI Developers at Every Level
IBM’s approach with Watsonx AI Labs emphasizes supporting developers at all stages—from students to seasoned professionals. Suzanne Livingston, IBM’s vice president for Watsonx Orchestrate Agent Domains and co-founder of AI Labs, highlights the challenge many enterprises face in identifying the best AI use cases. The lab offers a space where developers, whether clients, partners, or students, can seek expert advice and feedback on their projects.
Seek AI’s CEO Sarah Nagy expressed enthusiasm about joining forces with IBM, citing the combination of Seek AI’s expertise in building data agents and IBM’s engineering resources as a way to address complex AI challenges for clients.
IBM’s Growing Generative AI Business
While IBM holds a smaller slice of the overall AI market, its generative AI segment is gaining traction. In April, IBM’s CEO Arvind Krishna reported that the company’s generative AI revenue has surpassed $6 billion since inception, growing by over $1 billion in just one quarter.
Targeting AI Hot Spots Outside Silicon Valley
IBM’s move to establish AI Labs in New York City reflects a strategic focus on emerging AI hubs beyond the traditional Silicon Valley ecosystem. Bob O’Donnell, president and chief analyst at Technalysis Research, noted that this initiative positions IBM as a preferred partner for startups in New York’s vibrant AI scene. It also helps IBM demonstrate its commitment to innovation in AI.
O’Donnell expects other tech companies to follow suit by launching similar incubators in key AI clusters across the U.S. Livingston confirmed that if the New York model succeeds, IBM plans to expand the concept to other locations.
Why This Matters for AI Developers and Enterprises
- Access to IBM’s AI tools and expertise: Developers can leverage Watsonx capabilities and collaborate with seasoned AI professionals.
- Support across skill levels: Whether you’re a student or industry veteran, the AI Labs offer guidance for refining AI projects.
- Focus on practical enterprise challenges: Solutions target areas like customer service, supply chain, cybersecurity, and ethical AI use.
- Collaboration with startups: IBM’s investment in Seek AI integrates innovative natural language data analysis into broader AI applications.
For AI practitioners and enterprises looking to deepen their AI expertise, Watsonx AI Labs represents a valuable resource. To explore practical AI skills and training that align with industry developments, consider browsing Complete AI Training’s latest AI courses.
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