Key Takeaways
- Samsung is being considered to produce a memory input-output component for Google’s upcoming TPU known as “Icefish”
- The primary processing core of Icefish will be manufactured by TSMC utilizing its cutting-edge 1.4nm process technology
- Mass production could commence in 2028 if development stays on schedule
- MediaTek has reportedly joined the design efforts for Google’s 8th-generation tensor processing units, including Icefish
- Recent reports indicate Google is also negotiating with Intel for the production of more than 3 million TPUs by 2028
Alphabet’s (GOOGL) Google is currently negotiating with Samsung regarding the production of a critical component for its upcoming tensor processing unit, based on a Thursday report from The Information.
The processor, internally referred to as “Icefish,” remains in its design phase. Google’s strategy involves contracting TSMC to fabricate the core computational engine utilizing its advanced 1.4nm manufacturing process, with Samsung potentially manufacturing a distinct memory input-output die through its 2nm technology.
These discussions remain preliminary, with no finalized agreements reached. Neither Alphabet, Samsung, nor TSMC provided immediate responses to comment requests.
Icefish might reach full-scale production by 2028, although this schedule remains subject to change. Reports also suggest MediaTek is participating in the chip’s development process.
Expanding Google’s TPU Portfolio
Google continues expanding its proprietary AI chip ecosystem to provide cloud customers with viable alternatives to Nvidia’s GPU offerings. TPU revenue has increasingly contributed to Alphabet’s cloud services income.
The tech giant previously announced its 8th-generation TPUs during Google Cloud Next 2026 in Las Vegas this past April — introducing the TPU 8t for AI model training and the TPU 8i optimized for inference operations.
Icefish represents a significant advancement beyond these existing chips. The decision to distribute manufacturing between TSMC and Samsung indicates a more sophisticated production approach than Google’s previous chip development efforts.
Intel Discussions Add Another Dimension
The Samsung negotiations follow additional reporting from earlier in the week. Monday’s report from The Information revealed Google is simultaneously discussing arrangements with Intel for manufacturing over three million TPUs by 2028.
This development could represent a notable opportunity for Intel, which continues efforts to revitalize its foundry operations. Google has yet to officially acknowledge these Intel discussions.
TSMC has traditionally served as Google’s principal chip manufacturing collaborator and continues playing a crucial role in the Icefish initiative. The semiconductor industry faces ongoing capacity constraints as AI-driven customer demand continues its upward trajectory.
Currently, Icefish remains under development, with 2028 production representing an objective rather than a confirmed deadline.
