In a monumental collaboration, Microsoft and OpenAI have introduced plans for the ambitious “Stargate” AI supercomputer project, projected to cost up to $100 billion. This ambitious endeavour marks a significant milestone in the race to develop cutting-edge AI infrastructure capable of handling the exponential growth in demand for advanced AI capabilities.
The proposed “Stargate” AI supercomputer, slated for launch in 2028, poised to be the crown jewel of the project, represents a quantum leap forward in AI computing power. With the rapid adoption of generative artificial intelligence technology driving skyrocketing demand for AI data centres, Stargate aims to push the boundaries of what’s possible in AI-driven innovation.
According to reports from The Information, Microsoft is expected to spearhead the financing of the project, which is anticipated to be 100 times more costly than some of the largest existing data centres. The U.S.-based supercomputer is part of a series of supercomputers planned for development over the next six years.
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The project’s phases, outlined by Altman and Microsoft, highlight the strategic evolution of AI computing capabilities, with Stargate positioned as the fifth and most advanced phase. Preceding it, Microsoft is already underway with the development of a smaller fourth-phase supercomputer for OpenAI, scheduled to launch around 2026.
One of the key challenges to realizing this vision lies in acquiring the necessary AI chips, which come at a significant cost. With chip prices reaching tens of thousands of dollars, Microsoft and OpenAI are faced with substantial expenses in procuring the hardware required to power Stargate and subsequent supercomputers.
While Microsoft refrained from directly addressing reports about the Stargate supercomputer, a spokesperson affirmed the company’s commitment to advancing AI infrastructure. The proposed expenses for the project could exceed $115 billion, signalling a substantial investment in advancing AI capabilities.
The Stargate AI supercomputer project represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of AI infrastructure, promising to unlock new possibilities and propel AI innovation to unprecedented heights. As Microsoft and OpenAI forge ahead with this ambitious endeavour, the future of AI computing looks more promising than ever.
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