Leaked Images Give First Look at Apple's AI Servers

Images purportedly revealing the inner workings of an Apple-designed AI server have emerged online, providing a rare glimpse into the company's hardware design. Shared by @hsuchingpo, a user known for leaks about Apple's devices, the images suggest the server is likely Apple's Private Cloud Compute (PCC) system. PCC is meant to handle complex AI tasks on the cloud while safeguarding user data.

The leaked images show a chassis designed for rack mounting, packed with individual compute modules. Each module features a separate circuit board secured with blue and red ejector latches for easy removal. These boards connect to a backplane via gold edge connectors, with heatsinks running through the center of each column. A service diagram inside the chassis lid provides information on board positions and Apple's part numbers.

Each chassis can accommodate up to 32 boards, with airflow management likely in mind, featuring heatsinks down the center and fans at both ends. A closer look at one board reveals an Apple logo printed directly onto a chip package, suggesting the use of Apple's own silicon. Two NAND flash chips are also visible nearby.

The leaker noted that the server cannot operate independently, requiring use alongside Mac Studio for software control. Without a physical control machine and a specific control account, any activation would be impossible. Apple manufactures these AI servers domestically at a facility in Houston, Texas, as part of a $600 billion U.S. investment in semiconductor technology.