In a recent Machine Learning Research paper titled “Apple Intelligence Foundation Language Models” (via CNBC), Apple shared insights into the work behind its upcoming AI tools. Notably, instead of using its custom silicon or turning to Nvidia, Apple utilized Google’s chips.
The paper disclosed that Apple rented “Cloud TPU clusters” from Google, which stands for Tensor Processing Unit. Specifically, Apple used 2,048 TPUv5p chips for its on-device model and 8,192 TPUv4 chips for its Apple Foundation Model server.
Some might humorously suggest that the key feature of the iPhone 16 – Apple Intelligence – relies on Google’s technology. However, Apple’s own silicon will be responsible for running the pre-trained AI model.
Apple Intelligence has debuted in the iOS 18.1 beta, offering an early experience of the company’s AI innovations ahead of the full release in September. To run it, you’ll need at least an iPhone 15 Pro or an M1-powered iPad.
The beta allows users to try out new AI writing tools and a revamped Siri with a more personal touch. Other features, such as Image Playground and Genmoji image generation, will be introduced later.
