Microsoft's Next AI Accelerator 'Braga' Coming in 2026 to Boost Datacenter Efficiency
Microsoft is gearing up to release a second-generation Maia AI accelerator next year, aiming to shift its AI workloads away from traditional GPUs. The tech giant has been developing its own chips, including the Maia 100 and a custom CPU called Cobalt, to improve performance and efficiency.
Microsoft's push for homegrown chips is driven by a focus on performance per dollar. While its first AI accelerator, the Maia 100, didn't outpace competitors like Nvidia and AMD, the company is determined to make further strides. Microsoft CTO Kevin Scott has stated that the company hopes to use its in-house chips for the majority of its datacenter workloads in the future.
Microsoft is not alone in this pursuit. Tech giants like Google and Amazon have already deployed tens of thousands of their own AI accelerators for in-house workloads and customer wins. Microsoft's latest Maia chip, codenamed 'Braga,' was initially planned for 2025 but has been postponed to 2026.
Microsoft's investment in homegrown AI accelerators signals a significant shift in the tech industry. While these chips may not entirely replace existing GPU solutions, they could provide more cost-effective and efficient alternatives for Microsoft's vast datacenter operations. The release of the Maia 'Braga' in 2026 will be a key milestone in this transition.
