Intel, a pioneer in semiconductor technology, has taken a significant step into the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The company has created an independent company named Articul8 AI in collaboration with DigitalBridge Group and other key investors. Intel aims to provide a full-stack, vertically-optimized, and secure generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) software platform for enterprise customers. We’ll look at the technical details of Articul8 AI, exploring its origins, features, and the potential impact on the AI landscape.
Articul8 AI
Articul8 AI emerges as a result of Intel’s collaboration with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) on corporate AI technology. Leveraging their own supercomputers, Intel developed a powerful generative AI system capable of processing both text and images. The system, a blend of open-source and proprietary technology, runs within BCG’s data centers, addressing privacy and security concerns. Arun Subramaniyan, former VP and GM in Intel’s data center and AI group, will lead Articul8 as its Chief Executive Officer.
Addressing Industry Concerns
One of the primary driving forces behind the creation of Articul8 was the reluctance of potential customers to entrust their data to large cloud computing companies for AI work. Importantly, concerns about privacy, security, and escalating costs were prevalent among enterprises considering AI solutions. Arun Subramaniyan highlights the company’s focus on bridging the gap in generative AI. Specifically, he emphasizes that transitioning from proof of concept to production in a secure and cost-effective manner is a challenge many organizations face.
Investors and Structure
Articul8 has successfully secured backing from influential entities such as DigitalBridge Group, Fin Capital, Mindset Ventures, Communitas Capital, GiantLeap Capital, GS Futures, and Zain Group. With the establishment of an independent board of directors, Articul8 maintains its status as a non-publicly traded entity. This strategic decision underscores Intel’s approach to actively pursue external capital for its business units. Capitalizing on this support, the company is strategically positioned to propel innovation and expedite the widespread adoption of generative AI within the enterprise sector.
Technical Features of Articul8 AI
- Hardware Foundation: Articul8’s generative AI services are built upon Intel hardware, including Intel Xeon Scalable processors and Intel Gaudi accelerators. This foundation ensures compatibility and optimization for Intel’s hardware architecture, offering enterprises a seamless integration experience.
- Hybrid Infrastructure Support: Articul8 embraces a hybrid infrastructure approach, providing support for alternative hybrid setups. This flexibility enables enterprises to deploy generative AI services using existing infrastructure, reducing the need for extensive hardware investments or migrations.
- Enterprise-Grade GenAI Deployments: The platform focuses on delivering enterprise-grade GenAI deployments, ensuring robust performance and security. Articul8 aims to facilitate the transformation of proprietary data into actionable insights, unlocking lasting business value for its customers.
- Production-Grade Solutions: Articul8 promises production-grade generative AI solutions with rapid deployment capabilities. The emphasis is on building proof of concept and seamlessly transitioning AI applications into production environments with sustained cost-effectiveness.
- APIs and Technologies: The platform offers ready-to-consume APIs for easy deployment of generative AI applications. Articul8 supports technologies like ModelMesh, FlexLLM, and LLM-IQ. This enhances its versatility, allowing developers to leverage cutting-edge tools for AI development.
- Performance Metrics: Articul8 boasts impressive performance metrics, including less than 100ms search latency, unlimited token usage, and support for over 1000 concurrent users. These benchmarks position Articul8 as a high-performance solution for enterprises with diverse AI needs.
