In the context of the rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI), Apple is stepping up its layout in the field of AI. It is reported that Apple is discussing with its main foundry partner Foxconn to cooperate in the production of AI servers in Taiwan, so as to improve the cloud computing power of its devices such as the iPhone 16 series and seize the opportunity in the generative AI market. China Exportsemi will conduct in-depth analysis from the perspectives of technical cooperation, market impact and industry prospects, and put forward personal opinions.
1. Technical cooperation and production layout
Self-developed chips empower AI servers:
Apple's plan to use its own chips in AI servers is a further demonstration of its ability to innovate independently in hardware. The self-developed chip not only allows Apple to precisely control the performance and power consumption of its servers, but also enhances the synergy of its products, which is especially critical for the optimization of AI servers in terms of efficient computing power and energy efficiency.
Deepening cooperation with Foxconn:
As Apple's main production partner, Foxconn has accumulated rich experience in AI server production, and plans to build the world's largest GB200 chip factory in Mexico to provide stronger support for AI hardware manufacturing. However, sources revealed that Foxconn's production capacity may not be able to fully meet Apple's needs, suggesting that Apple may continue to look for more partners.
Pictured: Apple plans to work with Foxconn to make AI servers in Taiwan
Diversified Cooperation Strategy:
In addition to Foxconn, Apple intends to work with Lenovo and other suppliers to further expand its AI server production capacity. This diversified partnership strategy helps to diversify production risks and accelerate the implementation of products in global markets.
2. the market potential and industry dynamics
The AI server market continues to grow:
According to the China Business Industry Research Institute, the size of China's AI server market will exceed 42 billion yuan in 2022, a year-on-year increase of about 20%. This market is expected to reach 56 billion yuan in 2024. This trend not only shows the rapid growth of market demand, but also highlights the importance of AI servers in generative AI and data center applications.
Steady increase in shipments:
In 2022, AI server shipments reached 284,000 units, a year-on-year increase of 25.66%, and it is expected to rise to 421,000 units in 2024. This reflects the increasing demand for AI servers in various application scenarios, driving the pace of data center construction.
Changes in the market landscape:
Currently, training servers dominate the market, but with the development of generative AI technology, the demand for inference servers is expected to rise. Apple's entry may accelerate this change, especially driven by its brand influence and technological innovation capabilities, which will have a profound impact on the competitive landscape of the market.
3. In-depth thinking on Apple's AI strategy
Strengthen the ecological closed loop:
Apple's AI strategy is not only reflected at the product level, but also permeates infrastructure construction. Through self-developed chips and expanded cooperation, Apple has gradually built a comprehensive AI ecological closed loop, further consolidating its leading position in the smart device market.
Far-reaching impact on the industry:
Apple's AI server plan has far-reaching implications for the industry. AI servers may become an indispensable part of future data centers, and Apple's move may drive more companies to follow suit and promote the commercialization and large-scale application of AI server technology.
Prospects for future development:
With the continuous advancement of AI technology, the AI server market will become more active in the future. Apple's cooperation with Foxconn and other suppliers will inject new vitality into the market and lead the industry towards efficient and intelligent development.
4. Summary
Apple's and Foxconn's plan to produce AI servers in Taiwan is an important step in their AI strategy. This move not only strengthens Apple's own competitiveness, but also has a profound impact on the AI server market landscape. In the future, as technology matures, AI servers will play an increasingly important role in data centers and become a key force in promoting technological development.
