Meta Platforms is in discussions to lease computing power to artificial intelligence firm Anthropic in a potential deal worth up to $10 billion over two years. This significant agreement would see Anthropic pay Meta in monthly increments for access to its advanced infrastructure, although the specific terms are still subject to change.
The proposed deal, initiated by IPO-bound Anthropic in June, aims to secure the substantial computing capacity needed for its advanced AI tools. This growing demand for computing power is a direct result of the increasing adoption of sophisticated artificial intelligence technologies across various industries. For Meta, this venture represents a strategic move to diversify its revenue streams beyond its traditional advertising business, tapping into the burgeoning market for AI infrastructure services.
This potential collaboration aligns with a broader trend in the technology sector where major players are exploring new ways to monetize their extensive infrastructure. Meta's CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, indicated at a May shareholder meeting that entering cloud computing was a strong possibility. He noted that companies were frequently approaching Meta to purchase access to its AI models or spare computing power. This suggests a deliberate shift by Meta to leverage its technological assets in new markets, mirroring strategies seen with other tech giants.
While Meta did not immediately comment on the discussions, and Anthropic declined to comment, the talks have reportedly become complex. This complexity arises because Meta does not currently operate a dedicated business for selling its computing power. However, the company has been reportedly building a cloud business to sell excess computing power and host AI models for developers, as reported by Bloomberg News earlier this month. This indicates a proactive effort by Meta to formalize and expand its offerings in this area.
The implications of such a deal are substantial for both companies and the wider technology landscape. For Meta, it would provide a significant new revenue stream, reducing its reliance on advertising and positioning it as a key player in the AI infrastructure market. This could also enhance its competitiveness against emerging cloud firms like CoreWeave and Nebius. For Anthropic, securing this computing power is crucial for its continued development and deployment of advanced AI models, such as its Claude Code creator. The successful conclusion of these talks would underscore the immense value of robust computing infrastructure in the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence sector, influencing future investment and strategic partnerships across the industry.