News that Intel plans to float Mobileye for around US$50bn in 2022 is very positive for Seeing Machines in a number of ways.

Intel a possible bidder for Seeing Machines?

Firstly, it would provide Intel with funds to take over Seeing Machines, which is the leading global player in the driver monitoring/occupant monitoring space. Intel would gain additional revenue lines in aviation and other transport verticals. It would also stymie Qualcomm’s strategy of dominating interior sensing within auto. 

Even if the acquisition turned out a mixed success for Intel, it could do what is plans to do with Mobileye; IPO it a few years later for multiples of that value. Remember Intel paid $15bn for Mobileye and that acquisition has arguably turned out to be a very mixed blessing.

Presssure on Qualcomm to bid increases

A further positive for Seeing Machines is that the timing of Intel’s move increases the pressure on Qualcomm to make a bid for Seeing Machines, while the former’s hegemony in DMS/OMS is still rumour not fact. By June 2022 multiple wins in auto DMS/OMS will be known to all market participants and Seeing Machines market value will have risen significantly. 

By acting soon, on its knowledge of guaranteed wins by Seeing Machines that have not yet been officially signed, Qualcomm could save itself billions and avoid a strategic denouement at the hands of Intel. 

Yes, Qualcomm would have to come up with at least US$5bn but that is a relative bargain, given that Seeing Machines profits from fleet, auto and aviation would earn that back by 2030.

The writer holds stock in Seeing Machines