Automattic, the company behind WordPress.com, has announced its acquisition of WPAI, a startup that builds AI solutions for WordPress, in a move that will significantly enhance its AI capabilities and offerings. The terms of the deal were not disclosed.

WPAI has developed several AI-powered products, including CodeWP, a tool that uses AI to create WordPress plugins, and AgentWP, an AI assistant for WordPress site builders. Additionally, the startup offers WP Chat, an AI-powered chat for WordPress-related questions. While CodeWP and AgentWP will be discontinued in their current form, they will be integrated into Automattic's offerings eventually.

As part of the acquisition, the founding team of WPAI will join Automattic to lead the development of AI features for WordPress. According to Automattic, they will focus on "testing, building, and integrating innovative AI solutions into the core ecosystem to redefine how users and developers work with WordPress."

Automattic's CEO, Matt Mullenweg, also announced the acquisition on his personal blog, highlighting the company's commitment to creating applied AI solutions for the WordPress ecosystem. WPAI noted that its focus will be on developing AI standards for WordPress, improving the platform's core functionality, and creating tools that help users build and manage better websites.

The acquisition marks Automattic's second in two months, following its purchase of Harper, a Grammarly competitor for developers that checks grammar locally on the device. This latest move suggests that Automattic is shifting its focus towards creating AI-powered developer and site building tools, building on its existing AI tools that help users write better and more succinct posts.

It's worth noting that Automattic and Mullenweg are currently embroiled in a legal battle with rival WordPress hosting site WP Engine. WP Engine has accused Mullenweg of anti-competitive behavior, while Mullenweg and Automattic argue that WP Engine infringed on the "WordPress" trademark and didn't contribute enough to the ecosystem. The judge in the case has indicated that the court will pass some primary injunction, although the specifics of the order are still being ironed out.

The acquisition of WPAI is a significant move for Automattic, as it looks to expand its AI capabilities and further establish itself as a leader in the WordPress ecosystem. With the founding team of WPAI on board, Automattic is well-positioned to develop innovative AI solutions that will enhance the WordPress experience for users and developers alike.

As the WordPress ecosystem continues to evolve, this acquisition highlights the importance of AI in shaping the future of website development and management. With Automattic at the forefront of this movement, it will be interesting to see how the company's AI capabilities develop in the coming months and years.