OpenAI is reportedly in talks with Broadcom and other chip manufacturers for artificial intelligence (AI) Chips manufacturing.
Massive clusters of graphical processing units (GPUs) or similar computer processors are typically employed to train AI models, including Meta’s Llama and OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Nvidia is the manufacturer of the H100, which is the most widely used hardware.
The cost of the H100 can range from $15,000 to $30,000, contingent upon the desired quantity and current market conditions.
It can require tens of thousands of these AI processors to train a single model with the additional data required for larger, more robust systems.
Despite OpenAI’s status as the market leader in the generative AI sector, its partner, Microsoft, owns a substantial portion of the hardware utilized to train OpenAI’s models.
Partnership with Broadcom
According to The Information, OpenAI is discussing creating its chip with Broadcom and other semiconductor manufacturers.
OpenAI did not confirm or deny the allegation in a statement to The Information; however, it did indicate that it was investigating the possibility of enhancing infrastructure access.
“OpenAI is having ongoing conversations with industry and government stakeholders about increasing access to the infrastructure needed to ensure AI’s benefits are widely accessible. This includes working in partnership with the premier chip designers, fabricators and the brick-and-mortar developers of data centres.”
The report also asserts that the investment necessary for OpenAI’s plans for a new processor would likely be in the billions or higher range.
Altman’s Chip Mission
According to the Wall Street Journal, Altman was actively pursuing investors in February 2024 to accumulate a $5–$7 trillion war chest to develop additional chips.
As previously reported, Altman discussed the initiative with government officials, private investors, and corporate leaders. He also reportedly conferred with the National Security Advisor of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed al Nahyan, and investors from the same country.
