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Apple to Acquire FoundationDB

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FoundationDBGroupTechCrunch is reporting that Apple has acquired FoundationDB, a company that specialises in speedy, multi-model databases - ones that can store and interrogate many types data. The acquisition has not yet been confirmed by either company, but there seems no reason to doubt that it is true.

Apple already owns a database company in FileMaker, but it is clear that these are two very different beasts. While FileMaker, with its long history as an independent unit within its parent company, focuses on traditional database development, particularly for SMEs and individual users, FoundationDB addresses much larger and more diverse datasets. Its core strength appears to be speed, and its ability to handle multiple and ill-defined data.

All the indications are that this purchase is primarily for internal purposes, designed to bolster Apple’s server-side technologies for the App Store, iTunes Connect or iTunes in the Cloud. With millions of apps now in the store and billions being served to users, there is undoubtedly room for improvement in those systems.

FileMakerLogoMeanwhile FileMaker continues to operate in its quiet but effective style - it is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Apple, and is almost unique in continuing to be run as such. Most Apple acquisitions are fairly swiftly absorbed into the parent company, which has a general aversion to the artificial barriers that retaining separate businesses or P&Ls introduce to a corporation. It does appear that there is little if any cross-over between Apple’s plans for FileMaker and FoundationDB.

Go TechCrunch Acquires FoundationDB

Go FoundationDB

Go FileMaker