To push into the generative AI space with unrelenting force, Apple Intelligence servers that were currently equipped with the M2 Ultra will eventually be replaced by the M4 Ultra, assuming the company releases it during the intended launch timeframe. However, it appears that a new chip is being developed by Apple, but the company is not taking this route on its own because a new report states that Broadcom will also be involved.
The unnamed chip is codenamed ‘Baltra’ and is said to be released in 2026; Broadcom’s contribution could lie in supplying one of the chiplets
A paywalled report published on The Information that was spotted by AppleInsider talks about the new AI chip, which could help boost the capabilities of Apple Intelligence servers by bringing in more cloud-based features. While the Cupertino firm’s Large Language Models are being trained on Amazon’s custom chips, there is also a need to address the ever-increasing demand of requests that will be handled by Apple Intelligence servers. This is where the involvement of Broadcom likely comes into play, with the new AI chip codenamed ‘Baltra’ and slated to launch in 2026.
Baltra is said to leverage TSMC’s 3nm ‘N3P’ process, which is also expected to be used to mass produce the A19 and A19 Pro next year for the iPhone 17 series. The chip itself could sport various chiplets, with each of them designed for a specific function. Apple could later combine each of these chiplets into a single unit, with Broadcom possibly included to help with how each of these processors communicates with each other when simultaneously running in Apple Intelligence servers.
The reason why a chiplet design could be explored by the company is to reduce manufacturing complications, which would otherwise raise costs, but it could also allow Apple to keep the overall design hidden, even from its partners like Broadcom. As for the actual servers, we previously reported that Foxconn had been tasked to produce them, with Apple’s assembling partner earlier said to receive some assistance from Lenovo and its subsidiary when it comes to design.
News Source: The Information
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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