IBM and AWS forge global alliance, streamlining access to AI and hybrid cloud solutions

“This will increase competition with some of the select SaaS vendors on the AWS platform who offer similar offerings,” said Rajiv Ranjan, associate research director at IDC. “In particular, it will make it easier for IBM software and IBM Watson customers on AWS to source these required software. There are other hybrid cloud, automation, and observability software on AWS. These software vendors will compete with IBM now for the above-mentioned customers.”

A broader portfolio of solutions

This development allows customers in the 92 countries to access IBM’s AI and data technologies through a “portfolio of 44 listings and 29 SaaS offerings” including components of watsonx AI and Data platform, the company said in the statement.

“Watsonx.data, a fit-for-purpose data store built on an open data lakehouse architecture, and Watsonx.ai, a next generation enterprise studio for AI builders are available in AWS Marketplace as well as two of IBM’s AI Assistants — watsonx Assistant and watsonx Orchestrate. Watsonx.governance is expected to be available soon,” IBM said.

Besides, the expanded offering also includes IBM’s flagship database Db2 Cloud Pak for Data as well as a portfolio of automation software including Apptio, Turbonomic, and Instana, and the IBM Security and Sustainability software portfolios — all built on Red Hat OpenShift Service on AWS. “The cloud-native software enables clients to deploy on AWS while flexible licensing, including SaaS and subscription, makes it easier for clients to purchase exactly how they want,” IBM said.

In addition to the software portfolio expansion, IBM is also launching 15 new consulting services designed specifically for AWS environments. “These new service offerings are aligned to client needs and demand, focused on data and application modernization, security services, and tailored industry-specific solutions — with generative AI capabilities included in select services,” the statement added.

Collaboration Takes Center Stage

The IBM and AWS collaboration underscores an emerging trend within the tech industry.  As the demand for cloud solutions continues to grow, collaboration between major tech players is likely to become commonplace.