SUSE acquires Losant

Luxembourg-based SUSE has acquired Cincinnati-based Losant, an Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) platform. The terms of the acquisition remain undisclosed, but the transaction marks a significant expansion of SUSE's edge computing capabilities by integrating a software layer that addresses sensors and devices on factory floors and in industrial environments.

This acquisition brings Losant’s low-code platform under SUSE’s Edge business unit, enhancing its capabilities in device orchestration, data management, and workflow automation. Notably, SUSE intends to open source Losant's technology. Such a move could potentially position SUSE as a leader in Industrial IoT by providing end-to-end services with open-source flexibility across the entire stack from data centers to the so-called "Tiny Edge."

With the addition of Losant, SUSE transitions from solely providing edge infrastructure to offering a comprehensive Industrial IoT solution. This strategic acquisition allows SUSE to extend its market reach, enabling industrial clients to gain real-time insights from data generated by their machines and operations. According to Keith Basil, SUSE Edge's general manager, this initiative enables SUSE to deliver in areas where the digital and physical worlds intersect, thus enhancing its value proposition with meaningful AI deployments and improved process insights.

The acquisition also underscores the competitive dynamics in the enterprise software sector, particularly as edge computing becomes a critical area of focus. By integrating Losant's capabilities, SUSE gains a competitive edge against rivals who rely on proprietary systems, appealing to enterprises seeking flexibility and scalability through open-source technologies.

Going forward, SUSE's challenge will be to foster a developer and integrator community to drive adoption of its new open-source IIoT technologies. Regulatory approvals and the seamless integration of Losant’s technology stack into SUSE's existing services remain important milestones. The company’s strategy to introduce this integrated solution at Susecon in April could serve as a pivotal moment in showcasing its enhanced capabilities to a global audience.