Apple is working on an AI server that would utilize its high-performance M-series Ultra chips, found in Mac desktops. This move would mark the company's return to the enterprise server market after a nearly two-decade hiatus. The project, which began a year ago under the leadership of then-hardware engineering chief John Ternus, has reportedly received his support as the new Apple CEO.
The server is expected to come in two configurations, featuring either two or four of Apple's future M8 Ultra chips, according to The Information. This development coincides with the surging popularity of Apple's Mac mini and Mac Studio among AI developers and companies, who are snapping up these devices to run AI workloads.
Companies like OpenAI have purchased tens of thousands of Mac minis and Mac Studios to train AI agents, while Anthropic has rented Mac minis from Amazon Web Services. Apple is also considering using Nvidia's data center networking equipment to connect its M8 chips, potentially leveraging Nvidia's NVLink Fusion technology.
However, the project's success is not without challenges. The ongoing shortage of memory chips, driven by the rush to build AI data centers, poses a significant supply chain hurdle for Apple and the broader tech industry. This shortage has led to price increases for consumer electronics, including Apple products.
If Apple's AI server comes to fruition, it could be a notable part of John Ternus' legacy as the new CEO. Ternus took over the leadership position from Tim Cook on September 1, after Cook's 15-year tenure.
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