Meta Partners with Midjourney for Access to AI Image and Video Tech

Meta Platforms Inc. has partnered with AI image and video generator Midjourney Inc. to gain access to the startup's "aesthetic technology" for its models and products. The partnership includes a licensing agreement and technical collaboration between the companies' research teams. The financial terms and other details of the deal have not been disclosed.

Meta Platforms Inc. has entered into a strategic partnership with AI image and video generator Midjourney Inc. to gain access to the startup's "aesthetic technology" for its models and products. The collaboration, announced by Meta's new chief AI officer, Alexandr Wang, includes a licensing agreement and technical collaboration between the companies' research teams. The financial terms and other details of the deal have not been disclosed.

The partnership aims to enhance Meta's AI capabilities, particularly in the area of imagery across its services. Meta's AI app, which features a feed of AI-generated images and videos, will likely benefit from Midjourney's advanced technology. Additionally, Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp have already integrated AI image generation features, and this collaboration could elevate the sophistication and artistry of these visual elements [1].

Midjourney, founded in 2021 by David Holz, has garnered attention for its AI image and video generation tools. The startup's technology is recognized for its artistic and creative capabilities, even when compared to offerings from larger players like Google and OpenAI [2]. The partnership with Meta aligns with Midjourney's mission to bring "sublime tools of creation and beauty to billions of people" [2].

Meta's recent focus on AI has been marked by significant investments and acquisitions, including the purchase of Scale AI for $14.3 billion. This acquisition brought on board key AI researchers, including Alexandr Wang, who is now spearheading Meta's AI initiatives [1]. The partnership with Midjourney is another step in Meta's strategy to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

The collaboration underscores Meta's willingness to adopt an "all-of-the-above" approach, combining world-class talent, ambitious compute roadmaps, and strategic partnerships with leading AI companies. This move suggests that Meta is looking to accelerate its AI development efforts and deliver more compelling products to its users.

References:
[1] https://www.theverge.com/news/764715/meta-ai-midjourney-license-partnership
[2] https://officechai.com/ai/meta-licenses-midjourneys-tech-for-its-models-and-products/