Tech giant Microsoft and research lab OpenAI have announced a collaborative project to develop a next-generation supercomputer codenamed “Stargate.” While specific details and functionalities haven’t been disclosed by either company, reports suggest the AI system will be a multi-phase initiative culminating in a $100 billion supercomputer targeted for completion by 2028.
Stargate’s Purpose: Advancing AI Research and Development
According to news reports, Stargate is envisioned as the final stage of a five-phase supercomputer program between Microsoft and OpenAI. The immense processing power of this machine is expected to be dedicated to training and running OpenAI’s next generation of artificial intelligence models. These models could potentially contribute to advancements in various fields, though neither Microsoft nor OpenAI have elaborated on specific applications.
Addressing Bottlenecks in AI Chip Technology
Reports indicate that a significant portion of the project’s cost is attributed to the cutting-edge AI chips required for the operation. Currently, there are bottlenecks in the supply of these specialized chips, hindering the development of powerful AI systems. By investing in Stargate, Microsoft and OpenAI might be aiming to secure a significant amount of this hardware and overcome limitations in current AI technology.
The Road to Stargate: A Phased Approach
While the complete system is expected by 2028, reports suggest that earlier phases of the project might see preliminary supercomputers deployed as early as 2026. This phased approach could allow for testing and refinement of the supercomputer architecture before the final, large-scale Stargate comes online. The project signifies a significant investment in AI infrastructure, with the potential to shape the future of artificial intelligence research and development.