AI Startup Raises $16.5M to Streamline Software for Drones and Robots

A new Boston startup using AI for drones and robots: Code Metal, founded by artificial intelligence researchers from MIT Lincoln Laboratory, has raised $16.5 million to develop AI software for hardware like drones, sensors, and robots.

Simplifying software development for diverse hardware: Code Metal is building a translation platform that allows developers to write software in common programming languages and quickly adapt it to run on various hardware chips:

• The startup aims to automate the translation process, potentially cutting out months or years of delay in getting software to work on specific hardware systems.
• Part of Code Metal’s technology relies on large language models, the AI technology behind ChatGPT, to speed up software code writing.

Founders’ background in defense and tech: Co-founder Peter Morales’s experience working on software for the F-35 jet fighter and other defense projects helped shape the idea for Code Metal:

• Morales worked on AI algorithms to recognize enemy radar for the F-35 and had to adapt the software to run on the aircraft’s specific computer chips.
• He also worked on an AI system to counter drone attacks against the U.S. Capitol and helped create a computer vision program for Microsoft’s HoloLens augmented reality headset.

Funding and growth plans: With the new seed funding led by Shield Capital and previous pre-seed financing from J2 Ventures, Code Metal plans to expand its team:

• The startup currently employs seven people and aims to grow to about 30 with the new funding.
• Though headquartered in Boston, Code Metal operates on a hybrid basis with employees in San Francisco and New York, and plans to build a hub in the Boston area.

Analyzing deeper: Code Metal’s technology could significantly streamline the development of AI applications for a wide range of hardware devices, making it easier and faster to deploy intelligent systems in the real world. However, as the startup grows, it will need to navigate the challenges of working with diverse hardware platforms and ensure its translation platform remains robust and efficient. Additionally, the company’s roots in defense research may raise questions about the potential applications and implications of its technology in military and surveillance contexts.