Google is reportedly considering a partnership with Samsung Electronics to assist in the development of a next-generation artificial intelligence chip, known internally as “Icefish.” According to a report by The Information, discussions are ongoing between the two companies regarding Samsung’s role in manufacturing certain components of the processor. The partnership would mark a significant step for Google as it seeks to bolster its chip production capacity amid rising demand for AI technology.

The Icefish chip is currently under development, with Google aiming to share manufacturing responsibilities among various partners. The principal processing unit of the chip is set to be fabricated by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC), while Samsung is expected to contribute a distinct component that will facilitate the connection between the processor and memory. This division of labour is expected to optimise production efficiency.

The advancements in AI hardware are prompting major technology firms to diversify their chip supply chains. Samsung, equipped with its 2-nanometre manufacturing technology, could play a crucial role in enhancing the overall performance of the Icefish chip when it enters mass production, which is anticipated to begin as early as 2028.

Samsung’s Role and Technology

The component manufactured by Samsung is expected to be a memory input-output die, integral for linking the processor to high-bandwidth memory. This connection is vital for effectively managing substantial AI workloads, thereby allowing Google to improve performance for its AI-driven applications.

While neither Google nor Samsung has officially confirmed these discussions, the possibility of integrating Samsung’s advanced manufacturing technology into Google’s AI infrastructure indicates a strategic move towards augmenting production capabilities. Additionally, Google’s engagement with MediaTek for the project signifies that the company is expanding its collaboration with various chip design firms.

Earlier reports indicated that Google has also initiated talks with Intel regarding the production of over three million tensor processing units (TPUs) by 2028. Such initiatives highlight Google’s efforts to secure ample manufacturing capacity in anticipation of surging demand for AI chips, which are becoming increasingly critical in modern computing.

Industry Demand and Google’s Strategy

The surging demand for AI chips is creating challenges for even the largest chip manufacturers. TSMC, which serves prominent companies like Nvidia, Apple, and AMD, is reportedly facing strain as it tries to meet burgeoning production requests. C.C. Wei, the CEO of TSMC, warned earlier this month that the supply of chips may remain constrained for several years due to accelerated AI adoption.

For Google, the focus on enhancing chip production capacity has taken on significant importance. Over the years, the company has invested heavily in the development of its TPUs, offering an alternative to Nvidia’s highly popular graphics processing units (GPUs). Google’s custom chips are integral to many of its AI services and form a key element of its cloud computing operations.

In April 2026, Google unveiled two new AI-centric chips aimed at optimising the training of AI models and the execution of related applications. This continual investment in AI infrastructure is part of Google’s strategy to maintain competitiveness against tech giants such as Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta. The potential collaboration with Samsung could further strengthen its position in the AI technology market, making its manufacturing network more robust and versatile.

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