Microsoft is one of the companies investing the most in artificial intelligence recently. The company, which has AI-oriented tools such as Bing Chat and Windows Copilot, also wants to take part in the hardware side of the business. Allegedly, Microsoft will develop its own AI chip instead of using Nvidia’s graphics cards.
Microsoft may be working on an AI chip
Microsoft may be gearing up for next month’s Ignite conference. The company is allegedly preparing to unveil plans for its own artificial intelligence chips. Developed under the code name “Athena”, the in-house AI chip is expected to be detailed.
In fact, Microsoft’s investments in AI chips are not new. It was stated that the technology giant, which has been developing Athena since at least 2019, is currently accelerating the project with approximately 300 employees. If launched, it could rival popular graphics cards such as the Nvidia H100.
Big tech firms, including Microsoft, have been investing in Nvidia’s chips for AI tools for years. This has significantly boosted Nvidia’s revenues and stock performance. But Microsoft’s new in-house chip could change the balance in the market.
Earlier reports suggested that Microsoft had partnered with Nvidia rival AMD for Athena. There have also been allegations that Microsoft is providing financial support to AMD for its artificial intelligence efforts.
At the Ignite conference to be held between November 14-17, Microsoft is expected to make important announcements for artificial intelligence. With the officialization of Athena, a new era in artificial intelligence education can begin.