Intel introduces a new pair of processors that are tipped to be the company's first foray into using artificial intelligence.
The chip, which was developed in Intel's facilities in Haifa, Israel, was launched on Tuesday, Aug. 20.
Intel Uses AI On Processors
According to Tech Radar, the two newly released processors are the first pair from Intel's Nervana Neural Network Processor line. Both have been developed to give users a better and more effective option to Xeon CPUs when it comes to handling AI and machine learning activities.
The first processor is dubbed Nervana NNP-T or Spring Crest, designed to train AI systems and equipped with 24 Tensor processing clusters specifically meant for powering neural networks.
On the other hand, the second processor known as Nervana NNP-I or Spring Hill will be used as Intel's inference system on a chip. It is fitted with 10 nanometer process technology and Ice Lake cores, enabling users to deploy trained AI systems.
A Future Running On Artificial Intelligence
Intel's new products is a significant step in reaching a future where AI is an integral part of human life.
"To get to a future state of 'AI everywhere,' we'll need to address the crush of data being generated and ensure enterprises are empowered to make efficient use of their data, processing it where it's collected when it makes sense and making smarter use of their upstream resources," said Naveen Rao, Intel's Artificial Intelligence Products Group general manager and vice president.
According to the Intel executive, it's important that computers have access to specialized acceleration in order to perform complex AI applications.
"In this future vision of AI everywhere, a holistic approach is needed — from hardware to software to applications," he concluded.
Significance To Large Companies, Individuals
Ultimately, these chips are meant to allow large companies to process massive workloads without expending too much energy. As more and more complex computations become a part of the AI industry, the need for a chip that can handle these tasks rises.
In fact, Facebook is already reportedly using Intel's new processors.
The Inquirer noted that while the new CPUs may not be particularly useful to individual consumers as of now, the technology will eventually trickle down into future commercial Core processors. With this technology, CPUs could be equipped with localized areas dedicated specifically for tasks related to machine learning, including voice recognition and clever image recognition.
