Intel in Advanced Talks to Acquire AI Chip Startup SambaNova for $1.6 Billion

Dec 14, 2025
Intel is negotiating to acquire AI chipmaker SambaNova Systems for about $1.6 billion including debt, with a potential deal expected as soon as next month. SambaNova, founded by Stanford professors, designs custom AI chips and was valued at $5 billion in 2021.

Intel Corporation is in advanced negotiations to acquire SambaNova Systems, an artificial intelligence chip startup based in Palo Alto, for approximately US$1.6 billion including debt. The transaction could be completed as early as next month, though terms and timing may still change.

Founded in 2017 by Stanford University professors, SambaNova develops custom AI chips designed to compete with leading GPU-based systems. The company was valued at around US$5 billion in a 2021 funding round. Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan also serves as chairman of SambaNova, and his venture capital firm, Walden International, was one of its early investors.

While the discussions between the two companies are considered advanced, SambaNova has also signed term sheets with other potential investors and may explore alternatives to a sale. Both Intel and SambaNova have declined to comment on the ongoing talks.

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