- Apple is reportedly looking to Foxconn for support in building AI servers in Taiwan.
- Foxconn has already been the primary manufacturer of Nvidia AI Servers
- Limited Foxconn capacities prompt partnerships with other suppliers.
Apple had reportedly approached Foxconn long-term about building artificial intelligence computers in Taiwan, as part of Apple’s efforts to boost AI computing capabilities. Reports from Nikkei Asia claim that Apple is keen to use its own Apple M-series chips for these servers. These will power Apple Intelligence on its latest devices, including iPhones iPads and MacBooks.
Foxconn is a long-time Apple iPhone supplier, but sources familiar with the situation told Nikkei Asia that Foxconn may not be able to meet Apple’s request due to existing commitments. Foxconn is the primary manufacturer of Nvidia AI servers.
A source told the news website that they were looking for other partners
“One of the reasons Apple wants Foxconn to make servers in Taiwan is in the hope to tap the engineering talent and R&D resources that work for the Nvidia projects,” . Apple will produce these servers to meet its own needs. The volume required is relatively low in comparison to the massive demand for Nvidia GB200 AI servers. Apple’s limited knowledge of server design, especially for data centers means that it will likely need additional engineering and design assistance from its suppliers. According to reports, Apple is in talks with other partners, such as Lenovo’s subsidiary LCFC to help with server designs. Nikkei Asia (19459018) reports that these discussions include exploring new production capacity outside China, especially in Southeast Asia. They also involve collaborating with smaller providers like Universal Scientific Industrial to provide production services.
As companies like Microsoft and Amazon invest more in AI data centers, Apple tries to catch up with its Apple Intelligence capabilities as they roll out on new devices. This move to enhance its AI capabilities highlights the company’s growing need for expanded infrastructure.
Nikkei Asia ( ) notes that Universal Scientific Industrial and Foxconn declined to comment, while Apple and Lenovo didn’t immediately respond to requests for comments.
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