Apple would be setting up data centers equipped with its processors to boost artificial intelligence tasks. The technology giant adjusts the AI strategy for the launch of iOS 18 and among its plans is to offer some of its functions from the cloud. With this, Apple would adopt a mixed scheme that would favor privacy.
In accordance with a report by Mark Gurmanthose from Cupertino They are installing chips as powerful as the M2 Ultra in their servers with the aim of executing the most advanced artificial intelligence tasks. Although the iPhone 16 will arrive with a powerful AI-focused processor, Apple will not depend exclusively on internal hardware and will rely on the cloud to carry out other functions.
The journalist of Bloomberg claims that Apple is considering the new M4 chip and its future iterations to power its servers. The project, codenamed ACDC, initially considers the company’s data centers and will expand to third-party facilities in the future. The technology company is convinced that a mixed approach would be essential to safeguard user privacy.
Unlike what we see with ChatGPT or Gemini, Apple will rely on the hardware of the iPhone and other devices. The company has always opted for this scheme in other functions to protect the owner’s data. Nevertheless, some tasks require more power and that is why they will rely on dedicated data centers.
Servers with Apple Silicon could perform tasks such as generate images and create summaries of documents or emails. Gurman notes that this plan has been in the works for three years, although Apple stepped on the accelerator once ChatGPT exploded in popularity.
Apple wants to produce AI chips for servers
The idea of setting up data centers to carry out AI tasks coincides with a previous rumor that Apple is working on new chips. A well-known leaker stated that those from Cupertino have embarked on the developing your own AI server processors.
The manufacturing of Apple Silicon for servers would be carried out by its partner TSMC, using 3 nanometer technology. This strategy could translate into better performance and efficiency for AI apps debuting on iOS 18 and other operating systems.
Apple is confident that this unique scheme would put them a step ahead of their competitors. “We believe we have advantages that will differentiate us in this new era, including Apple’s unique combination of seamless integration of hardware, software and services,” Tim Cook said on a call with shareholders.
Although details about the server chips have not been confirmed, analysts say that production will begin during the second half of 2025. Until then, the company will rely on the M2 Ultra and M4 as essential components for its data centers.
