Microsoft Pledges £2.5 Billion Investment for Massive AI Datacentre Expansion Across the UK

Dear Lion Herald Reader,

Microsoft is set to inject £2.5 billion into a three-year initiative aimed at expanding artificial intelligence (AI) datacentres throughout the United Kingdom. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has lauded the move, describing it as a "turning point for the future of AI infrastructure and development in the UK."

The technology behemoth has outlined its commitment to more than double the size of its existing datacentres in the UK. This ambitious plan entails bringing over 20,000 advanced graphics processing units (GPUs) to the country by 2026, specifically designed for machine learning and AI model development.

Microsoft's expansion strategy includes enlarging facilities in London and Cardiff, with potential consideration for a further expansion into northern England. The company asserts that this significant investment will contribute to training "more than one million people for the AI economy." Additionally, Microsoft pledges to collaborate with the government and universities on AI safety and research initiatives.

Brad Smith, Microsoft's vice chairman and president, emphasized the company's commitment to establishing world-leading AI infrastructure in the UK. He stated, "Microsoft is committed as a company to ensuring that the UK as a country has world-leading AI infrastructure, easy access to the skills people need, and broad protections for safety and security."

Rishi Sunak commented on the UK's role in the global AI conversation, highlighting Microsoft's historic investment as evidence of the country's leadership in expanding the frontiers of AI for economic and scientific benefits.

Clare Barclay, Microsoft UK's chief executive officer, underscored the urgency of addressing the rapid changes in AI, stating, "The pace of change in AI demands action today to build a prosperous future for the UK tomorrow." She described the investment as the "single largest" in Microsoft's over 40-year history in the UK.

This announcement follows Microsoft's recent criticism of UK regulators and its lobbying efforts earlier this year after the proposed acquisition of computer games giant Activision Blizzard faced obstacles. Despite initial setbacks, the Competition and Markets Authority eventually approved the case following adjustments made by Microsoft.

Fabrice Iranzi, Editor in Chief / Lion Herald

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