Apple has acquired the Israeli camera-technology developer, LinX Imaging, for a reported $20 million, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal. The Zikhron Yaakov-based company develops and markets mini multi-aperture cameras for tablets and smartphones.
“Apple buys smaller technology companies from time to time and we generally do not discuss our purpose or plans,” an Apple spokesman told the Wall Street Journal.
There was no mention of the buyout on the LinX Imaging website.
LinX Imaging was founded in 2011 by two veteran high-tech entrepreneurs, CEO Ziv Attar and VP software Andrey Tovchigrechko. The company was relatively under-the-radar but still attracted Apple’s attention.
According to the company’s website, LinX’s technology “sets new standards for image quality parameters such as low light performance, HDR, refocusing, color fidelity, shutter lag” and can help produce 3D models including for face identity.
The company also says that it is “leading the way to DSLR performance in slim handsets.”
Apple previously acquired Israeli startups Anobit (2012) and PrimeSense (2013).
On his visit to Israel in February, Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook said Israel is Apple’s largest research and development hub outside of the US.