Google is discussing plans with Samsung Electronics to manufacture part of its next-generation artificial intelligence chip, according to a new report.
The chip, codenamed "Icefish," is being designed as part of Google's Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) lineup, which powers many of the company's AI services and cloud offerings. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) is expected to produce the primary computing portion of the processor, while Samsung is being considered to produce a separate component that connects the chip to memory using its advanced 2-nanometer manufacturing process, according to The Information.
The reported arrangement would split production between two of the world's most advanced chip manufacturers at a time when demand for cutting-edge semiconductors continues to put pressure on industry capacity. TSMC remains the dominant producer of advanced AI chips used by companies including Nvidia, AMD, Apple and Google.
"Icefish" remains in the design stage and is not expected to enter mass production before 2028. Google and Samsung had not publicly commented on the report as of Thursday. Reuters said it could not independently verify the discussions.
Technology companies are increasingly seeking alternative manufacturing partners to reduce pressure on a semiconductor supply chain that has become strategically important to governments and businesses worldwide. Advanced chips have become central not only to artificial intelligence development but also to defense systems, communications infrastructure and high-performance computing.
Google has spent several years developing proprietary AI processors as it seeks greater control over the hardware running its machine-learning models. The company's TPU chips have become a significant part of its cloud business, offering customers an alternative to Nvidia's graphics processing units, which continue to dominate the AI accelerator market.
Earlier this week, The Information reported that Google was also in discussions with Intel regarding the manufacturing of more than three million TPUs in 2028, underscoring the company's broader effort to diversify its semiconductor supply chain. Coverage of those discussions by Tom's Hardware noted that growing demand for advanced packaging and manufacturing capacity has pushed major technology companies to evaluate additional suppliers beyond TSMC.
The reported Samsung discussions also represent a potential opportunity for the South Korean technology giant's contract chip manufacturing business. Samsung has been investing heavily in advanced process technologies as it competes with TSMC for leading-edge semiconductor production contracts.
Pressure on manufacturing capacity remains a defining issue across the industry. TSMC reported strong sales growth in May and continues to benefit from sustained AI-related demand, according to Investor's Business Daily, which reported that orders for advanced chips remain robust across the sector. The publication noted that demand from AI-focused customers continues to support growth throughout the semiconductor ecosystem.
