Apple just struck a big deal with Google to power future AI features, and now per Ming-Chi Kuo, it sounds like the company is gearing up to mass-produce its in-house AI server chips soon.
In-house AI server chips could offer Apple a new advantage
Ming-Chi Kuo writes in a post on X:
Apple’s self-developed AI server chips are expected to enter mass production in 2H26, and its own data centers are expected to begin construction and operation in 2027, which may indicate that Apple anticipates significant growth in on-device AI demand starting in 2027.
There have been rumors for years that Apple planned to develop its own AI-focused server-class chips. Now, it seems the new chips will be ready soon.
Whatever critiques may be lobbed at Apple for its slow AI start and software quality of late, one undisputed current strength of the company is its silicon team.
Apple silicon has been a core part of the iPhone, iPad, and Mac getting better year after year. And more recently, it’s enabled Apple to ship its own in-house cellular modems (C1 and C1X) and wireless connectivity chip (N1).
Now, that accomplished silicon team has set its sights on AI server chips.
Kuo mentions the 2026 timeline for the chips themselves, whereas 2027 will bring new data centers online.
Since the chips will be produced this year though, it’s expected that they’ll be deployed in existing data centers on a smaller scale.
... continue reading