Apple is reportedly building an AI server that would use its high-performance M-series Ultra chips, which power Mac desktops. The potential product’s expected release in 2029 would mark the first Apple server to hit the market in nearly two decades—and could capitalize on the surging popularity of Apple hardware among AI developers.
The enterprise server would come in two configurations that include either two or four of Apple’s future M8 Ultra chips, according to The Information. The project reportedly received support from new Apple CEO John Ternus when it began a year ago, back when Ternus led Apple’s hardware engineering efforts.
This revelation coincides with booming sales for Apple’s Mac mini and Mac Studio as AI developers and companies snap up the Mac computers to run AI workloads. The popularity of such computing devices that rely on Apple’s M-series Ultra chips has undoubtedly encouraged Apple’s pursuit of an enterprise server using the same chips.
"Apple is also considering connecting its M8 chips using data center networking equipment from Nvidia," said a source. The potential use of Nvidia’s NVLink Fusion technology comes as sources told The Information that Apple and Nvidia have been holding conversations about how Apple could leverage Nvidia’s technology for the company’s AI push.
The Information cautioned that the project could still be canceled or go ahead without incorporating Nvidia’s technology. But if it moves ahead, it would mark a notable return for Apple to the enterprise server market following the retirement of Apple’s Xserve in January 2011.
If Apple’s AI server eventually comes to fruition, it could be a notable part of John Ternus’ legacy. Ternus officially took over as Apple CEO from Tim Cook on September 1, after the latter had served in the leadership position for 15 years.
Source: arstechnica
