In a significant move to strengthen its technological edge, Indian e-commerce giant Flipkart has announced the acquisition of a majority stake in the artificial intelligence startup Minivet. Founded in 2024, Minivet is an AI and machine learning solutions provider. This strategic investment is aimed at building and investing in core Generative AI (GenAI) capabilities for Flipkart.
Strategic Push into Generative AI
The acquisition comes at a crucial time when the e-commerce landscape is undergoing a rapid transformation. Shopping is increasingly shifting towards visual, conversational, and AI-driven discovery. Flipkart's move to bring Minivet AI into its fold is expected to accelerate this transition, paving the way for a more intuitive, interactive, and immersive shopping experience for millions of users on its platform.
The deal is currently subject to the completion of customary closing conditions. Once finalized, it will mark a major step in Flipkart's ambition to remain a leader in digital commerce innovation.
What Minivet AI Brings to Flipkart
Minivet AI specializes in a powerful suite of e-commerce-focused AI tools. Its flagship capability is generative video technology for e-commerce. This technology can transform static product images and descriptions from a catalogue into rich, engaging video content automatically and at a large scale.
Built on sophisticated model orchestration and deep performance optimization, the platform promises high-quality output at a fraction of the cost and time required for traditional video production. Beyond video, Minivet AI offers a broader set of AI capabilities, positioning itself as a full-stack AI partner for online retail platforms.
Leadership Perspectives on the Deal
Commenting on the acquisition, Ravi Iyer, Senior Vice President - Corporate at Flipkart, highlighted the strategic importance of the move. He stated that acquiring Minivet AI will enhance Flipkart's core GenAI capabilities through the integration of niche talent and advanced proprietary technology.
"These are critical for addressing the rising industry trend of visual-first and video-first commerce," Iyer said. "Ultimately driving higher customer engagement, conversions, and long-term innovation across the Flipkart platform and, over time, the wider Flipkart Group ecosystem."
Aditya Rachakonda, Founder of Minivet AI, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. He called it a pivotal moment for his startup, allowing them to deploy their proprietary GenAI solutions—from catalogue videofication to conversational search—directly onto one of India's leading e-commerce platforms at a massive scale.
"This partnership... makes shopping more intuitive and immersive for millions of customers," Rachakonda added.
The Future of AI-Powered Commerce in India
This acquisition signals Flipkart's serious commitment to leading the next wave of e-commerce innovation in India. By investing deeply in Generative AI, particularly for visual and video content, Flipkart is preparing for a future where product discovery is driven by dynamic media and conversational interfaces rather than simple text and image searches.
The integration of Minivet's technology could revolutionize how products are presented online, making digital shopping feel more like an in-store experience. It also underscores the growing importance of homegrown AI startups in shaping the technological infrastructure of India's digital economy.
