Intel Bets on SambaNova in a Cloud AI Push
Intel and SambaNova Systems agreed to a multiyear technical partnership to build a cloud AI service, with Intel contributing to SambaNova’s $350 million funding round and its Xeon chips powering SambaNova systems, as part of a broader push to challenge Nvidia in AI hardware; Intel’s CEO Lip-Bu Tan recused himself from SambaNova talks due to potential conflicts, with negotiations overseen by Kevork Kechichian under established governance. SambaNova remains independent, CEO Rodrigo Liang noting strong demand supports continued growth.