Smarter systems, faster insights: How edge AI is transforming business operations

ARTIFICIAL intelligence (AI) is transforming industries, helping businesses automate processes, improve accuracy and make faster decisions. Those that delay adopting it risk being left behind – especially with the shift from cloud-based to edge-based computing.

This shift allows AI to move beyond data centres and into the real world. Instead of sending data to distant servers for processing, edge-based AI works where it is needed most – on devices, local servers or even factory floors. Processing data closer to its source makes operations faster, more secure and more efficient.

As more businesses look to harness AI closer to where data is generated, Innodisk has stepped up to bridge that gap. Best known for its industrial-grade memory and storage solutions, the Taiwanese company has evolved into a comprehensive edge AI solutions provider that helps organisations deploy AI faster and more efficiently in real-world settings.

“The shift to edge AI has become urgent because businesses can no longer afford the delay, cost or risk of sending data to the cloud – they need intelligence that works instantly, securely and right where it’s needed,” says Johnny Wu, senior director of Innodisk’s Intelligent Peripheral Appliance Division.

Edge AI: The next-gen answer to productivity

Edge AI builds on edge computing by bringing intelligence directly to devices, enabling real-time decision-making without relying on the cloud. This helps to improve efficiency, reduce costs and allow organisations to scale. In manufacturing, it enables real-time quality checks, predictive maintenance and machine vision – reducing downtime and improving yield.

One example is Innodisk’s AI Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) solution for smart manufacturing, which uses AI-powered image recognition to detect defects on production lines in real time. In contrast, traditional AOI systems relied on manual checks or cloud-based analysis, which can slow down production.

Privacy is another key advantage. In sectors such as healthcare or finance, edge AI keeps sensitive data secure by processing it locally.

“As industries embrace and reap the benefits of digital transformation, edge AI is no longer an option – it is becoming the foundation on which future-ready businesses are built,” says Wu.

Bridging the gap between concept and deployment

The successful adoption of AI does not happen in isolation – it requires partners who can simplify complexity, integrate diverse systems and speed up deployment.

This is where Innodisk and its group subsidiary Aetina have built their strength. Together, they offer end-to-end edge AI solutions for both industry and enterprise use, focusing on the crucial “before the last mile” integration layer – the stage between proof-of-concept and real-world deployment.

By managing this integration, Innodisk and Aetina ensure that AI systems transition smoothly from lab testing to real-world environments, reducing risk, saving time and enabling faster returns on investment.

As a hardware manufacturer, Innodisk can also embed its proven industrial components into its AI solutions. Its modular design – combining AI camera modules, serial cards, high-performance memory and industrial SSDs – gives businesses the flexibility to build and scale AI infrastructure as needed.

To support long-term scalability, Innodisk also offers proprietary software tools such as iVIT, for AI model training and inference, and iCAP, for remote device monitoring and AI model management. These tools help enterprises not only deploy but also maintain and optimise their edge AI systems over time.

Partnering the biggest names in AI

To accelerate digital transformation, Innodisk works with an ecosystem of global technology companies. Its accelerator partners include Intel, Nvidia, Qualcomm and Axelera – companies whose GPUs, NPUs, chipsets and software form the foundation of many AI systems today.

By building on these platforms, Innodisk and Aetina deliver customisable, scalable edge AI solutions. Aetina’s collaboration with Nvidia has also earned recognition as the tech giant’s Elite Partner, the highest tier awarded by the AI leader.

These partnerships reinforce Innodisk’s role as a keystone in the AI ecosystem. Each partner contributes unique architecture and strengths, while Innodisk ensures that its industrial-grade hardware and modular designs integrate them seamlessly across systems.

In addition to these global partnerships, Innodisk collaborates with vertical specialists to bring AI into real-world applications. With Data Systems, known for its enterprise resource planning (ERP) software used in smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0, Innodisk helps companies embed AI directly into their operations.

For industrial applications, the company has partnered with Kenmec, which provides smart automation systems from wheeled robots to humanoid and autonomous mobile robots. These can be powered by Innodisk and Aetina edge AI systems and integrated into any industrial environment.

“Our goal is to be the keystone that connects cutting-edge AI architectures with real-world impact,” says Wu. “Together with our partners, we aim to bring the power of AI to the frontlines of industry and drive the next wave of intelligent innovation.”