Google Faces $1.6B AI Processor Patent Lawsuit

Headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the private startup Singular Computing recently accused Google’s Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) design of infringing upon its technological patents. This lawsuit is currently being adjudicated in the Boston Federal Court.

Singular Computing, a private startup, has accused Google’s TPU of technological infringement, alleging unauthorized use of its patented technology.

John Bates, the founder of Singular Computing, claimed that between 2010 and 2014, Google sought to utilize its technology in Google services. However, he alleges that the technology used in the subsequently released TPU was derived from Singular Computing, leading to a claim for $1.67 billion in damages.

Google, however, denies any negotiations with Singular Computing and emphasizes that the TPU design was developed using its proprietary technology. Addressing the emails exchanged between Singular Computing and Google scientist Jeff Dean, Google stated that its research team did not meet with John Bates or any representatives from Singular Computing.

Furthermore, Google noted that Singular Computing had approached various companies, including Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, and OpenAI, for collaboration opportunities, but did not receive a positive response from Google. Google also highlighted fundamental differences between the technology used in its TPU and the technology of Singular Computing.

The court has not yet issued a verdict on the lawsuit brought forth by Singular Computing, and market analysts anticipate that the proceedings may continue for several weeks.