Google is gearing up for a major shift in its AI chip strategy by partnering with Taiwan’s MediaTek to co-develop the next generation of its Tensor Processing Units (TPUs), targeting a launch next year. This collaboration signals a departure from Google’s long-standing exclusive relationship with Broadcom, though the tech giant isn’t completely cutting ties with its previous partner. MediaTek’s appeal lies in its ability to provide lower-cost chips while leveraging its robust manufacturing partnership with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the world’s leading chip foundry. This move could help Google optimize production costs and ensure a more resilient supply chain, especially as competition intensifies in the AI hardware space.
Google’s sixth-generation TPU, launched in late 2023, has already positioned itself as an alternative to Nvidia’s powerful GPUs, which dominate the AI market. By working with MediaTek, Google hopes to strengthen its foothold and reduce reliance on Nvidia, especially as rivals like OpenAI and Meta continue to demand Nvidia’s high-performance chips. According to research firm Omdia, Google’s spending on TPUs last year ranged between $6 billion and $9 billion — a significant portion of Broadcom’s AI semiconductor revenue. Diversifying with MediaTek could give Google better pricing leverage, increased production flexibility, and a faster route to next-generation AI hardware innovation.
In parallel with its AI chip ambitions, Google is exploring a transformative partnership with Apple to bring Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging to Indian smartphone users. RCS is an advanced messaging standard that offers a more interactive experience than traditional SMS, featuring high-resolution images, read receipts, typing indicators, and improved group messaging — essentially mirroring the functionality of Apple’s iMessage but for Android.
This potential collaboration could reshape the messaging landscape in India, where Apple’s "blue bubble" exclusivity has long been a status symbol among iPhone users. Reports suggest that Apple may finally adopt RCS for Indian users, aligning with Google’s existing partnerships with major telecom operators like Vodafone Idea and Reliance Jio. If realized, this deal could make seamless, cross-platform messaging a reality, blurring the lines between Apple and Android ecosystems.
From a technical standpoint, backend integration between telecom providers, Apple, and Google is expected to be smooth, ensuring a frictionless user experience. RCS messages would continue to operate over mobile data or Wi-Fi, just like SMS — but with added functionality. The bigger disruption might come in the business messaging sector. Application-to-person (A2P) messaging, widely used by banks, e-commerce platforms, and customer service channels, could shift away from basic SMS to RCS, enabling more engaging and interactive communications.
For example, instead of a plain text delivery confirmation from an online store, customers could receive an RCS message with real-time tracking updates, a clickable map, and one-touch access to customer support — all within their default messaging app. Similarly, banks could integrate secure, actionable notifications, such as bill reminders or credit card fraud alerts, with embedded links to resolve issues instantly.
By pushing RCS adoption alongside Apple, Google positions itself to redefine the way consumers and businesses communicate in one of the world’s largest mobile markets. This also serves Apple’s interests, potentially making iMessage less of a walled garden while ensuring iPhone users still enjoy a premium, enriched messaging experience.
The dual strategy — revamping AI chip production with MediaTek and reshaping India’s messaging ecosystem with Apple — underscores Google’s broader ambition to expand its influence across both hardware and software ecosystems. Would you like me to break down the potential ripple effects on the AI chip industry, or dive deeper into how RCS might evolve business communications in India and beyond?
