Apple begins designing custom AI chips for data centres
This move comes after years of Apple successfully developing chips for its mobile devices and laptops.
In a move signalling a strategic mobilization towards more control and innovation in the artificial intelligence landscape, tech giant Apple is reportedly venturing into a new territory, designing its own AI chips.
Codenamed "ACDC" (Apple Chips in Data Center), this ambitious project marks Apple's entry into custom hardware designed specifically for its data centers, potentially granting it greater control, and security, in the rapidly booming AI industry.
This move comes after years of Apple successfully developing chips (Apple Silicon) for its mobile devices and laptops. Teaming up with chip manufacturing giant TSMC, Apple intends to leverage its existing expertise and push the boundaries into server-grade AI processing.
While the official unveiling date for these chips remains undisclosed, reports suggest Project ACDC has been in development for several years. This ambition aligns with recent hints from CEO Tim Cook about a significant AI-related announcement at the upcoming WWDC in June.
Apple's foray into AI chips isn't happening in isolation. Tech titans like Google, Amazon, and Meta have all made similar moves towards developing their own AI hardware, underlining the escalating significance of AI within the tech ecosystem.
Notably, speculations are suggesting Apple might also be considering integrating external AI tools like Google's Gemini into its iPhone OS. Additionally, Apple is rumoured to be developing its own large language model, called AppleGPT, potentially rivalling OpenAI's popular ChatGPT.
Apple's commitment to AI is further evidenced by its acquisition of numerous AI startups since 2017. However, these internal developments seem to be progressing at a slower pace than anticipated. This might be a contributing factor behind Apple's decision to develop custom AI chips, potentially accelerating its progress in the field.
