ECNETNews reports that Canva has officially acquired the generative AI platform Leonardo.Ai, a pivotal move in its ambition to enhance design accessibility for all. This strategic acquisition is aimed at scaling Canva’s visual AI technology and driving innovation within the design sector.
Background and Objectives
Founded in 2013, Canva has consistently strived to democratize design, currently serving over 190 million users globally. With the addition of Leonardo.Ai, Canva seeks to strengthen its AI capabilities, enrich its range of AI products, and invest in ongoing research and innovation to redefine visual AI’s future.
Integration of Leonardo.Ai
Leonardo.Ai brings a robust team of 120 researchers and designers, poised to enhance its web platform for millions of users. With Canva’s financial backing and resources, Leonardo.Ai will be better positioned to expand its user base and elevate its offerings in AI-generated images, graphics, and videos.
Boosting AI in Visual Communication
Canva has a proven track record of investing in AI-driven design tools, beginning with the launch of its Background Remover in 2019 and the acquisition of AI company Kaleido in 2021. The introduction of the Text to Image tool in 2022, along with the AI-powered suite Magic Studio in 2023, has resulted in impressive user engagement, with Magic Studio utilized over 7 billion times.
The advanced technology from Leonardo.Ai will be seamlessly incorporated into Canva’s existing products such as Magic Media, significantly enhancing both AI image and video generation capabilities, and enabling deeper investment in core model research, vital for the growth of both companies.
User Benefits
This integration promises users improved tools for creating high-quality images and videos. With Leonardo’s advanced models, Canva users will have access to a diverse array of styles—from hyper-realistic images to animated illustrations—empowering marketers, designers, and educators to optimize their creative workflows.
Commitment to Independence and User Privacy
Leonardo will maintain its operational independence, prioritizing swift innovation and product development. While leveraging Canva’s resources, it will uphold a separate development path. Importantly, Canva user content will remain protected, with data shared with Leonardo only upon explicit user consent, ensuring privacy and control.
