Here are some of the top corporate partnerships formed in the tech industry in 2021:
1. Microsoft and SAP: In January 2021, Microsoft and SAP announced an expanded partnership to integrate Microsoft Teams with SAP’s cloud solutions, enhancing collaboration and enabling businesses to connect their workflows.
2. Amazon and Salesforce: In April 2021, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Salesforce announced a partnership to simplify and enhance data integration between AWS and Salesforce services, enabling joint customers to leverage the two platforms seamlessly.
3. IBM and Palantir: In May 2021, IBM and Palantir partnered to collaborate on artificial intelligence (AI) offerings. The partnership aimed to integrate IBM’s hybrid cloud and AI capabilities with Palantir’s data integration and analysis software to help clients leverage their data for more targeted insights.
4. Google and Ford: In February 2021, Google and Ford announced a strategic partnership to transform Ford’s business operations and accelerate digital innovation. Google’s cloud and AI capabilities will be leveraged to improve Ford’s manufacturing processes, vehicle connectivity, and various other activities.
5. Apple and Hyundai-Kia: In February 2021, there were speculations of a potential partnership between Apple and Hyundai-Kia for the development of autonomous electric vehicles. Though the collaboration has not been confirmed officially, it created significant buzz in the industry.
6. Nvidia and Arm: In September 2020, Nvidia announced the acquisition of ARM Holdings, a semiconductor and software design company, from SoftBank Group. Although the deal is yet to be finalized, it is expected to have a substantial impact on the tech industry.
7. Oracle and TikTok: In September 2020, Oracle partnered with TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to address national security concerns raised by the U.S. government. Under this partnership, Oracle would provide TikTok with cloud infrastructure and become a trusted technology provider for the social media platform.
8. Microsoft and SpaceX: In October 2020, Microsoft and SpaceX announced a partnership to develop cloud-computing capabilities using SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service. This collaboration aimed to improve connectivity and deliver cloud services to underserved areas.
9. IBM and Verizon: In February 2021, IBM and Verizon announced a partnership to collaborate on edge computing solutions, combining IBM’s expertise in AI, hybrid cloud, and cybersecurity with Verizon’s 5G network. This collaboration aimed to empower enterprises to harness the potential of edge computing for faster and more reliable data processing.
10. Adobe and FedEx: In December 2020, Adobe and FedEx announced a multi-year partnership to enhance e-commerce and digital document workflows. The collaboration aimed to integrate Adobe’s Commerce and Document Cloud solutions with FedEx’s e-commerce, shipping, and logistics capabilities, enabling businesses to streamline their operations and customer experiences.
Please note that the partnerships mentioned above may have been initiated in late 2020 but witnessed significant developments throughout 2021.