Tag: Tensor

  • Settlement Reached by Google in Patent Lawsuit Involving Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) Technology

    Settlement Reached by Google in Patent Lawsuit Involving Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) Technology

    Google Settles Patent Infringement Lawsuit Over TPU Chips

    Google has reached a settlement in a patent infringement lawsuit over the Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) that power its artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The settlement was reached just hours before closing arguments were set to begin in the case filed by Massachusetts-based Singular Computing. The lawsuit alleged that Google used Singular’s technology in its TPUs and sought $1.67 billion in damages.

    What are TPUs?

    TPUs are specialized hardware accelerators designed specifically for machine learning and AI workloads. They are optimized to perform complex calculations involved in AI tasks and are significantly faster and more efficient than traditional CPUs or GPUs. TPUs are used to power AI features in popular Google services like Google Search, Gmail, and Translate.

    Settlement Details

    The details of the settlement between Google and Singular remain confidential. Both parties have confirmed the agreement but declined to provide further comment. Google spokesperson Jose Castaneda maintained the company’s innocence and stated that they were pleased to have resolved the matter.

    Singular’s Allegations

    Singular, founded by computer scientist Joseph Bates, claimed that Google used their technology in TPUs. Bates allegedly shared his ideas with Google between 2010 and 2014. The lawsuit argued that TPU versions 2 and 3, released in 2017 and 2018, infringed on two of Singular’s patents.

    Google’s Defense

    Google countered Singular’s claims by stating that the employees who designed their chip had never met Bates and that the technology was created independently. The company argued that their TPU technology differed significantly from Singular’s patents.

    Internal Emails Presented at Trial

    During the trial’s opening, internal Google emails were presented as evidence. The emails showed the company’s chief scientist, Jeff Dean, discussing with others how Bates’ ideas were “well-suited” for their chip development.

    While the exact terms of the settlement remain undisclosed, the resolution of this lawsuit brings an end to the legal dispute between Google and Singular over the alleged patent infringement related to TPUs.

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  • TSMC to Potentially Produce Google Tensor G5

    TSMC to Potentially Produce Google Tensor G5

    Google Initiates Testing of In-House Chip

    Reports suggest Google partners with Taiwanese firm KYEC for evaluating a chip it developed internally, signaling a shift towards independent chip creation. KYEC offers testing services for fresh chips made in Taiwan. Google procures testing equipment at KYEC, with testing set to commence in the middle of the year and scale up gradually.

    Elaboration on Tensor G5 Chip

    The chip undergoing testing, named "Laguna," is speculated to be the Tensor G5. Set for unveiling in 2025, it will be produced using TSMC’s 3nm process. This chip will emphasize AI functionalities, aligning well with Google’s emphasis on AI-driven attributes in Pixel gadgets.

    Noteworthy Transition in Chip Development

    This potential change represents Google’s premier endeavor in crafting custom chipsets. Previously, the company banked on Samsung’s Exynos chips. Moving production to TSMC empowers Google with enhanced control over chip design, facilitating the development of more robust and competent Pixel phones. It also sidesteps Samsung’s Exynos chips, currently trailing Qualcomm’s Snapdragon lineup in performance and efficiency.

    Ongoing Relationship with Samsung

    In the immediate future, Google upholds its alliance with Samsung. The forthcoming Pixel 9 series will showcase the Tensor G4 chip, constructed utilizing Samsung’s 4nm process. While presenting marginal enhancements over the Tensor G3 chip of the Pixel 8, it shares technology with Samsung’s Exynos 2400 SoC, hinting at marked improvements in CPU and GPU performance.

    In a Nutshell

    Google’s collaboration with KYEC for chip assessment hints at potential self-reliant chip development efforts. The Tensor G5 chip is foreseen to give precedence to AI capabilities by 2025. Shifting production to TSMC might augment Google’s authority in chip design, leading to more potent Pixel devices. Nevertheless, Google maintains its partnership with Samsung through the Tensor G4 chip in the upcoming Pixel 9 series.

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