Intel announced it has acquired the Smart Edge platform from Pivot Technology Solutions, Inc., a “cloud-native, scalable and secure platform for multi-access edge computing (MEC).”

Edge computing allows data collected by Internet of Things (IoT) devices to be processed and analyzed closer to the point of collection, rather than being sent to far-away data centers. This gives organizations the ability to process critical data in near real-time. With the growth of the IoT, edge computing is predicted to reach $22.45 billion by 2024. The Smart Edge acquisition positions Intel to be a dominant player in the market as it grows.

“This transaction enhances our ability to address the 5G network transformation with a leading position in edge computing,” says Dan Rodriguez, Intel vice president in the Data Center Group and general manager of the Network Compute Division. “We plan to take full advantage of our combined technologies and teams to accelerate the development of the edge computing market while creating a compelling solution for customers.”

As part of the agreement, Intel and Pivot will sign a Preferred Partner Agreement, making Pivot an authorized Smart Edge reseller, as well as Intel’s non-exclusive Preferred Systems Integrator for systems based on the Smart Edge platform.

“Intel is the right company and brand to advance and scale Smart Edge’s software solution,” said Kevin Shank, CEO of Pivot. “Our partnership with Intel will leverage Pivot’s core strengths as a technology integrator and service provider with Intel’s advanced technology solutions to drive the adoption of the Smart Edge platform. We look forward to collaborating with Intel to develop and take to market many new edge computing use cases.”