OpenAI and Broadcom are reportedly in discussions about developing a new AI chip. This collaboration addresses the current shortage of graphics processing units (GPUs) essential for running AI models. OpenAI, a leading AI research organization, has been exploring ways to develop AI chips independently, aiming to reduce its reliance on Nvidia and enhance its supply chain capabilities.
OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, has been proactive in this initiative, engaging with various stakeholders, including chipmakers, partners like Microsoft, government bodies, and financial backers. His efforts are geared towards boosting the supply of components and infrastructure required to support increasingly powerful AI models. "The limiting factor of AI is capacity: chip capacity, energy capacity, compute capacity. "OpenAI is determined to take an active role in development rather than waiting for others to lead the way, given their frontline position", said a source knowledgeable about OpenAI's strategy.
The discussions with Broadcom, a leading semiconductor manufacturer, highlight the potential role Broadcom could play in developing a new chip tailored for OpenAI. Broadcom has a strong track record in AI equipment sales and has previously assisted Google in developing its Tensor Processing Unit (TPU). The company's expertise in chip design and manufacturing is expected to complement OpenAI's AI research capabilities.
OpenAI has been actively hiring former Google employees involved in developing Google's TPU, indicating its commitment to building in-house semiconductor capabilities. Additionally, Altman has announced plans to raise funds to establish semiconductor manufacturing facilities, potentially partnering with industry giants like Intel, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co, and Samsung Electronics.
The development of a new AI chip is anticipated to have significant implications for the AI industry. It promises faster and more efficient processing of AI models, thereby advancing the field of AI research and development. OpenAI's move to become more self-reliant aligns with its broader goal of pursuing artificial general intelligence (AGI) — AI that can outperform humans across a range of cognitive tasks.
Even with substantial backing from Microsoft, which has committed $13 billion, OpenAI would still require additional financial support or commercial partnerships to realize its ambitious plans. "It’s fair to say it requires massive sums of money to do this stuff," mentioned a source knowledgeable about the plans.
OpenAI's initiative also involves ongoing conversations with industry and government stakeholders to increase access to the necessary infrastructure. This includes collaborations with premier chip designers, fabricators, and data centre developers. The company stated that OpenAI is continuously engaging with industry and government stakeholders to enhance access to the infrastructure required, aiming to make the benefits of AI widely accessible.