Earlier this year, Apple informed the European Union that it had agreed to acquire certain assets and hire employees from PlasmaSolve, according to a notice published today on the European Commission's website.

Apple Inc., through a subsidiary, will acquire the entire issued share capital of PlasmaSolve s.r.o. and offer employment to and hire certain PlasmaSolve employees. PlasmaSolve develops solutions, including a plasma simulation software, to design and optimize plasma-based manufacturing processes.

The Czech materials science firm was founded in 2016 and has focused on creating simulation software to assist manufacturers with various plasma-related technologies. Its primary product was MatSight, a suite of apps intended to help manufacturers simulate the results of various vapor deposition processes for metals.

Apple has used the technology for many years on a number of products, including iPhone models to create a durable thin film on the casing to minimize scratching and other damage. The acquisition is part of Apple's ongoing strategy to secure advanced manufacturing technologies and enhance product durability.

PlasmaSolve's simulation capabilities allow precise control over plasma processes, critical for high-quality thin-film deposition, and are integral to Apple's production pipeline. The シ transaction aligns with European Union regulations on competition and technology transfer.

The deal also includes an agreement to retain key PlasmaSolve staff, ensuring continuity of expertise.