Alphabet X Spins Out Tidal to Revolutionize Salmon Farming with AI

Alphabet X, often dubbed the “moonshot factory,” has launched yet another ambitious venture, this time focusing on sustainable food production. Tidal, the latest spinout from Alphabet X, aims to revolutionize salmon farming by leveraging cutting-edge AI and computer vision technologies.

Tidal’s Mission to Sustainably Feed the World

Tidal, which officially spun out of Alphabet X in mid-July, has set its sights on the salmon aquaculture industry—a sector identified by the World Wildlife Foundation as the fastest-growing food production system in the world. Currently, salmon aquaculture accounts for 70% of the global salmon market, producing 2.5 million metric tons annually.

With a base in Trondheim, Norway, Tidal takes a uniquely “Googley” approach to this traditional industry. By combining sensors, robotics, data science, and AI, Tidal provides fish farmers with a comprehensive view of their operations. The system monitors fish health, offers yield estimates, and detects potential issues like sea lice early on, preventing significant damage.

Global Reach and Growing Impact

Tidal has already deployed 230 systems across Norway and has extended its operations to Chile and Brazil. The company’s technology empowers fish farmers to make more sustainable decisions, particularly in managing feed—the largest environmental and economic cost in the industry.

“In an industry where the largest environmental and economic cost is feed, Tidal empowers fish farmers around the world to make more sustainable decisions,” said Astro Teller, head of Alphabet X, in a statement. With Tidal now well on its way to commercializing its technology, it’s transitioning into an independent company with backing from strategic partners.

Transitioning to Independence

Tidal’s spinout has always been part of Alphabet’s plan, especially as the tech giant has begun tightening its focus on more profitable ventures. Although Alphabet remains a minority owner in Tidal, the startup is now pursuing external funding. Perry Creek Capital led Tidal’s most recent funding round, with additional support from Ichthus Venture Capital and Futurum Ventures.

Tidal is currently in “full growth mode,” with plans to double or triple the number of systems deployed in the coming years, positioning itself as a key player in sustainable aquaculture.