Facebook buys visual search engine GrokStyle

Facebook has acquired a start-up mainly engaged in the development of a visual search engine that uses artificial intelligence. This makes it possible, for example, to search for equivalent products via a photo.

Bloomberg news agency is reporting the acquisition, based on a statement released by a Facebook spokesperson. The GrokStyle company is primarily known for providing software for Ikea’s mobile application; which allows users to search for products sold by the furniture giant via an image. For example, users can take a photo of a table, after which the app searches for similar products within the catalog.

Facebook is acquiring both GrokStyle’s technology and employees. It will probably be fully integrated into Facebook and the technology will be further developed for Facebook’s own services. Precise plans have not been disclosed by the social media giant, however. It is also not clear how much will be paid for the acquisition of GrokStyle.