Intel in talks on $1.6 billion deal for SambaNova

Intel Corp is in advanced talks to acquire AI startup SambaNova Systems Inc for about USD1.6 billion including debt, Bloomberg reported late on Friday, citing "people familiar with the matter"

Bloomberg's sources said a deal for Palo Alto, California-based SambaNova could come together as soon as next month, but that while talks are in advanced stages, the terms and the timing could change, or SambaNova could "opt to pursue another path".

Santa Clara, California-based chipmaker Intel is eyeing SambaNova, which designs custom AI chips, as "a long-sought platform to help build out its AI product offering — and at a discount," Bloomberg said.

It said Intel and SambaNova representatives both declined to comment.