Apple has said it has been using Google TPU chips to train its AI software infrastructure, which will power its upcoming suite of Apple Intelligence, AI tools, and features.
In a new research paper from Apple, the company detailed the hardware and software infrastructure of its AI tools and features without any mention of NVIDIA hardware whatsoever. Apple said in its research paper that to train its new AI models, it used two different TPUs from Google that are organized in large clusters of chips.
Apple used 2048 x TPUv5p chips from Google for the AI model that will work on the iPhone and other devices, while the company used 8192 x TPUv4 chips for its server AI model. NVIDIA doesn’t design TPUs but instead makes GPUs for gaming, workstations, AI GPUs, and more.
Reuters published the report, adding that Apple, Google, and NVIDIA all declined to comment, with the outlet reporting earlier in June that Apple was using the TPU chips, but not to the extent we know today.
Apple engineers said in their paper that it is possible to make larger, more sophisticated models using Google TPU chips, not just the size that Apple has created for its iPhone and server AI models.
Apple’s next-gen iPhone 16 family of smartphones will be powered by the new Apple A18 processor, which will have more AI power than its new M4 chip, according to the latest rumors. Apple’s new iPhone 16 launches later this year, with Apple Intelligence and all of its new AI features and tools are also in the ovens at Apple right now.