Apple is planning a return to the server market and might partner with Nvidia to achieve it. The Information reported the development, highlighting a potential shift for the hardware giant.
Apple discontinued its Xserve product line back in 2011. Since that time, the company has mostly left enterprise machines to other manufacturers. Rising demand for computational power across the artificial intelligence industry has changed the calculation.
Apple now believes an opening exists for its powerful and efficient ARM-based M processors. Mac Mini and Mac Studio computers have found popularity among AI developers. That popularity has directly led to hardware shortages.
The new server product may or may not carry the Xserve name. A debut will likely not happen until 2029. Current plans suggest the hardware will run on two or four M8 Ultra chips depending on the specific model.
The M8 line remains distant given that Apple only announced the M6 in August. Rumors also indicate the servers could incorporate Nvidia NVLink Fusion technology. This system connects multiple chips so they can operate as a single unit.
Apple and Nvidia have historically maintained a frosty relationship behind the scenes. However, Apple recently utilized Nvidia chips to power its revamped Siri servers.
Incorporating NVLink could pave the way for deeper collaboration between the two tech giants. Company plans remain flexible and could still change before any official release.
Development work continues behind the scenes as Apple evaluates the timeline for its future server hardware.
