Apple Joins AI Data Center Tech Consortium for Next-Gen Developments

Jimmy Jing

14 Jan 2025 — 1 min read

Apple Embarks on AI Data Center Initiative

Apple has announced its participation in a newly formed consortium aimed at advancing next-generation technology to interconnect chips in AI data centers. Known as the Ultra Accelerator Link Consortium, it is at the forefront of creating a standard named UALink, which serves to connect AI accelerator chips across various server farms. This development marks Apple's position on the consortium's board, joining forces with Alibaba and semiconductor firm Synopsys.

A Promising Future for AI Connectivity

Becky Loop, Apple's director of platform architecture, remarked that UALink "shows great promise" in resolving connectivity challenges while opening up new frontiers for expanding AI capabilities and demands. "Apple has a long history of pioneering and collaborating on innovations that drive our industry forward, and we're excited to join the UALink board of directors," she added.

UALink is designed to link various chips, including GPUs and custom-designed solutions, to enhance the efficiency of training, refining, and executing AI models. Based on open standards like AMD's Infinity Fabric, the first UALink products are anticipated to be unveiled within the coming years.

Consortium Members and Market Dynamics

Among the prominent members of the UALink consortium are Intel, AMD, Google, AWS, Microsoft, and Meta. Notably absent is Nvidia, the leading producer of AI accelerators, likely due to its own proprietary connect technology, NVLink.

Strengthening Apple's AI Infrastructure

Apple’s involvement in UALink aligns with its increasing investments in infrastructure that bolster Apple Intelligence, a suite of AI product features. It's reported that Apple is developing a new server chip to enhance the efficiency of its AI data centers, pointing to a strategic direction toward more robust AI capabilities.

While some features of Apple Intelligence have faced mixed reviews, with some designating it as "boring and practical," Apple continues to refine its product offerings. Following user feedback that highlighted inaccuracies, Apple plans to update its AI-summarized news alerts feature.

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