CNBC · 12 Oct, 13:00 · Artificial Intelligence briefing

Microsoft to rely more on homegrown AI chips, reducing dependence on Nvidia

Microsoft is shifting its strategy to rely more heavily on homegrown artificial intelligence chips, thereby reducing its dependence on Nvidia.

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

What happened, who it affects, and why it landed on our intelligence desk — in plain English, sixty seconds or less.

Microsoft is shifting its strategy to rely more heavily on homegrown artificial intelligence chips, thereby reducing its dependence on Nvidia. This strategic pivot aims to enhance supply chain resilience and potentially lower costs. For the tech industry, this signals a significant move towards vertical integration in hardware development. Professionals should note that this change may alter hiring priorities within major tech firms, emphasising in-house semiconductor design and custom hardware engineering over external procurement. The development underscores a broader trend of tech giants seeking greater control over their AI infrastructure.

Employer demand for Medical Physics skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

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This shift means semiconductor design and hardware engineering skills are becoming increasingly critical. You should pay close attention if you work in tech infrastructure or product development. Companies will need experts who understand custom chip architecture and how it integrates with software stacks. A smart professional would upskill in hardware-software co-design or deepen their knowledge of cloud infrastructure optimisation. Consider exploring courses in sustainable computing to align with efficiency goals. If you are in project management, focus on managing complex hardware development cycles. This trend suggests that versatility in understanding both AI algorithms and the physical infrastructure running them will make you more valuable. Start networking with teams involved in infrastructure strategy to gain visibility and relevant experience.

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Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
Indicative ranges from published continuing-education salary studies, by field — each field is a recommended course below

Matched to this story

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