Google and Singular Computing have settled TPU infringement lawsuits

Google previously faced a copyright infringement lawsuit from the private startup Singular Computing over the design of its computational accelerator, TPU. The two parties have settled, although the specifics of the agreement have not been disclosed.

The lawsuit initially saw Singular Computing demanding compensation of up to $7 billion from Google, a figure which was later adjusted to $1.67 billion during the court proceedings.

John Bates, the founder of Singular Computing, claimed that Google, between 2010 and 2014, expressed interest in utilizing their technology for Google’s services. However, the technology used in the subsequently launched TPU was alleged to be derived from Singular Computing’s innovations, leading to the claim for $1.67 billion in damages.

Google, however, denied any negotiations with Singular Computing and emphasized that the TPU was developed with proprietary technology. The company also refuted claims of meetings between its research team and Bates, despite emails exchanged with Google scientist Jeff Dean.

Furthermore, Google stated that Singular Computing had approached other industry players like Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, and OpenAI for collaboration opportunities without receiving a positive response from Google. The company also highlighted fundamental differences between the technology used in TPU and that of Singular Computing.

The court did not disclose the details of the settlement, but Google spokesperson Jose Castaneda stressed that the company did not infringe on any patents held by Singular Computing.