Alphabet X’s New Venture Brings AI and Computer Vision Innovations to Salmon Farming

Over its history, Alphabet X, formerly known as Google X, has garnered attention for its diverse range of innovative projects aimed at tackling significant global challenges. The “moonshot factory” has been responsible for a variety of pioneering technologies, from weather balloons designed to provide internet access in remote areas to energy-generating kites. This pattern of ambitious problem-solving continues with Tidal, a recent spinout from Alphabet X that aims to revolutionize sustainable food production.

Tidal, which emerged as an independent entity in mid-July, is initially focusing on the salmon aquaculture industry. This sector is rapidly expanding and is now responsible for 70% of the global market for salmon, according to the World Wildlife Foundation. Tidal’s approach is characterized by leveraging advanced technology to improve the efficiency and sustainability of salmon farming. The company integrates sensors, robotics, data science, and artificial intelligence to enhance monitoring and management of fish farms. Its technology provides real-time insights into fish health, helps estimate yields, and detects issues such as sea lice early to prevent potential damage.

Currently, Tidal operates in Chile, Brazil, and Norway, where it has deployed 230 systems. This global presence underscores its commitment to enhancing aquaculture practices worldwide. The company’s focus on improving feed efficiency is particularly significant given that feed represents the largest environmental and economic expense in the industry. By offering farmers data-driven tools to make more sustainable decisions, Tidal aims to reduce the environmental impact of salmon farming and support the long-term viability of the industry.

Astro Teller, head of Alphabet X, highlighted the significance of Tidal’s spinout in a recent statement. He noted that as Tidal moves toward commercialization, it is transitioning to operate as an independent company with backing from both financial and strategic partners who align with its vision of sustainable aquaculture. The spinout of Tidal, along with recent moves by Alphabet X, such as the transformation of the robotics firm Mineral into a technology licensing venture and the spinout of the assisted clothing firm Skip, reflects a strategic shift in how Alphabet X manages and evolves its projects.

Despite Alphabet X's ongoing involvement as a minority owner, Tidal is actively seeking further external funding to accelerate its growth and innovation in the field of sustainable aquaculture. The most recent funding round, led by Perry Creek Capital, saw contributions from additional investors including Ichthus Venture Capital and Futurum Ventures. Although the exact amount raised has not been publicly disclosed, this influx of capital is expected to significantly bolster Tidal’s efforts to enhance its technological offerings and broaden its market presence.

Tidal’s focus on salmon aquaculture—a rapidly expanding sector that accounts for a substantial portion of global seafood production—places it at the forefront of addressing key challenges in the industry, such as sustainability and efficiency. The company’s technology integrates advanced sensors, robotics, and data analytics to provide farmers with critical insights into their operations, improving both yield estimates and early detection of potential issues like sea lice.

With 230 systems already deployed in Norway and ongoing collaborations in Chile and Brazil, Tidal is positioned to make a considerable impact on global aquaculture practices. The additional funding will support the company's efforts to scale its operations, refine its technology, and enhance its capabilities, driving its mission to promote sustainable practices within the seafood industry.