Meta Platforms has acquired Sundial, an AI-powered data analytics platform. The startup was established by two former Meta employees, Julie Zhuo and Chandra Narayanan, who previously held leadership roles at Meta and Instagram.
Sundial specializes in enabling business teams to query complex datasets using natural language through chatbot plugins. This functionality allows users to generate actionable insights without relying on centralized data departments, potentially accelerating product iteration and operational decision-making.
Following the acquisition, Chandra Narayanan will join Meta to lead initiatives related to data analytics tools and AI agents. This move aligns with Meta's broader strategy to enhance its data infrastructure, which included the creation of a dedicated Data Analytics Tooling and Agents department in July.
The new department, headed by Chief Data Officer Alex Schultz, focuses on descriptive analytics, experimental testing, and the monitoring of critical AI systems. Meta aims to leverage these capabilities to address the increasing demand for AI-driven insights.
