In a bid to revamp its position in the ever-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI), tech giant Apple is reportedly forging ahead with plans to develop its own chip tailored specifically to power AI software in data centres. Citing sources familiar with the matter, the Wall Street Journal revealed this ambitious move on Monday.
Amid mounting competition and inquiries regarding its AI strategy, Apple has remained elusive. CEO Tim Cook, in a recent interview with Reuters, hinted at the company’s optimism in generative AI while emphasising substantial investments in the field.
Internally dubbed as Project ACDC (Apple Chips in Data Center), the initiative seeks to capitalize on Apple’s prowess in chip design, aiming to bolster its server infrastructure. Although in the works for several years, details regarding the project’s timeline and potential unveiling remain shrouded in mystery.
Unlike conventional server chips, Apple’s rendition is anticipated to be tailored for AI inference tasks rather than training AI models, as per the report. Collaborating closely with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Apple aims to spearhead the design and production of these specialised chips. However, the report highlights uncertainties surrounding the fruition of this partnership and the definitive outcome.
As Apple endeavours to carve out a niche in the AI realm, the forthcoming developments in Project ACDC could mark a significant stride in the company’s technological trajectory.