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Strong AI server demand to drive market value to over $18b in 2024

Naushad K. Cherrayil
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Strong AI server demand to drive market value to over $18b in 2024
  • ASIC servers will hold 26% share of total AI server market in 2024, while GPU-equipped AI servers will occupy approximately 71% of the market.
  • NVIDIA maintains a dominant position as leading AI chip supplier for GPU-equipped AI servers, commanding nearly 90% market share in this segment.

In 2024, the demand for advanced AI servers from major cloud service providers (CSPs) and brand clients is anticipated to remain high.

Research conducted by TrendForce indicates that major CSPs are prioritising the procurement of AI servers over general servers, leading to a noteworthy growth disparity between the two segments.

While general server shipments are experiencing a modest annual growth rate of 1.9 per cent, AI server shipments are surging, with an expected share of 12.2 per cent in total server shipments, marking a 3.4 percentage point increase from the previous year.

Significantly, the expansion of production by key players such as TSMC, SK hynix, Samsung, and Micron has alleviated shortages in the second quarter of 2024.

The improvement is evidenced by the reduced lead time for NVIDIA’s flagship H100 solution, dropping from 40–50 weeks to under 16 weeks.

TrendForce forecasts a substantial 20 per cent quarter-on-quarter increase in AI server shipments for the second quarter, revising the annual shipment forecast up to 1.67 million units, reflecting a remarkable 41.5 per cent year-on-year growth.

Prominence of ASIC servers

In terms of market value, AI servers are making a substantial contribution to revenue growth compared to general servers. The projected market value of AI servers in 2024 is expected to surpass $187 billion, with a growth rate of 69 per cent, constituting 65 per cent of the total server market value.

The prominence of ASIC servers is on the rise, with North American CSPs and Chinese companies amplifying their respective ASIC AI solutions. It is anticipated that ASIC servers will hold a 26 per cent share of the total AI server market in 2024, while GPU-equipped AI servers will occupy approximately 71 per cent of the market.

NVIDIA maintains a dominant position as the leading AI chip supplier for GPU-equipped AI servers, commanding nearly 90 per cent market share in this segment.

Evolution in chip specifications

In the broader scope encompassing all AI chips utilised in AI servers (GPU, ASIC, FPGA), NVIDIA’s overall market share stands at around 64 per cent in 2024, with AMD trailing at an 8 per cent market share.

The sustained demand for advanced AI servers is expected to persist into 2025, particularly with NVIDIA’s upcoming Blackwell generation poised to supersede the Hopper platform, driving the need for CoWoS and HBM. The expansion in production capacity of major supplier TSMC’s CoWoS to 550–600K units by the end of 2025 signals an imminent 80 per cent growth rate.

The evolution in chip specifications is noteworthy, as the main chips like NVIDIA’s Blackwell Ultra and AMD’s MI350 are projected to feature up to 288GB of HBM3e by 2025, tripling the current unit usage.

The  anticipated surge in demand for HBM underscores the robust growth projections for the AI server market, with overall HBM supply expected to double by 2025 to meet the escalating requirements.

Corvi LED secures $8m, first major funding in seven years

TCN Bureau
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Corvi LED secures $8m, first major funding in seven years
  • Infusion of capital to fuel company’s expansion into new markets, diversification of its product range, and enhancement of its technological capabilities.

Corvi LED, a consumer lighting company based in Mumbai, secured a $8 million in a Series B funding round led by Enam Investments, marking its first major funding in seven years.

The infusion of capital will fuel the company’s expansion into new markets, diversification of its product range, and enhancement of its technological capabilities.

Founded in 2012 by Vimal Soni, Corvi LED has made significant strides in the lighting industry, offering a wide range of innovative LED products across various categories.

Innovation efforts

The company takes pride in its top efficiency ratings and advanced features, such as eliminating metal bodies, drivers, and heat sinks, backed by over 100 patents and registrations.

With a strong presence in both B2C and B2B segments, Corvi LED aims to introduce new LED products that cater to evolving consumer demands. Having exported to 24 countries and garnered investments from notable entities like Hero Enterprise in the past, the company is poised for further growth and success.

Despite a slight decline in operating revenue for the fiscal year ending in March 2023, Corvi LED remains optimistic about its future prospects, especially with the recent financial boost from Enam Investments.

The company’s strategic funding round mirrors a trend in the industry, where established brands are attracting fresh investments to fuel their expansion and innovation efforts.

Tron Energy and MAP-Tron-E to manufacture EV buses in UAE  

TCN Bureau
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Tron Energy and MAP-Tron-E to manufacture EV buses in UAE  
  • Project will undergo rigorous testing to ensure the highest safety and efficiency standards for the electric buses.
  • Upon approval, the joint venture will proceed with full-scale manufacturing and distribution activities across the MENA region.

Tron Energy Technology Corporation and MAP-Tron-E have established a joint venture dedicated to advancing the development and production of electric vehicle (EV) buses in the UAE.

The significant collaboration was marked by the signatures of Richard Huang, CEO of Tron Energy Technology Corporation, and Akshay Aggarwal, Director of MAP-Tron-E at an official ceremony.

The joint venture signifies a crucial step in the UAE’s sustainability journey and its commitment to reducing carbon emissions.

Efficient transit solutions

By leveraging cutting-edge EV bus technology, the partnership intends to introduce environmentally friendly transit solutions in the region. In becoming one of the pioneering electric bus manufacturers in the UAE, the venture is aligned with the nation’s drive towards environmental sustainability.

A key focus of the collaboration will be the establishment of sustainable charging infrastructure to facilitate the widespread adoption and convenient use of EV buses.

The strategic move is poised to revolutionise the regional transportation sector, promoting eco-friendly and efficient transit solutions in the MENA region.

During the event, Richard Huang said that Tron Energy Technology Corporation’s dedication to supporting the UAE’s leadership in achieving net carbon zero, expressing gratitude towards the visionary leaders driving the initiative.

Contributing to sustainable mobility solutions

Akshay Aggarwal announced the introductory members of the board of directors of MAP-Tron-E, illustrating their commitment to steering the joint venture towards success.

Scheduled to commence ground testing with buses in the UAE by the end of the third quarter of 2024, followed by manufacturing beginning in the first quarter of 2025, the project will undergo rigorous testing to ensure the highest safety and efficiency standards for the electric buses.

Upon approval, the joint venture will proceed with full-scale manufacturing and distribution activities across the MENA region, further cementing its contribution to sustainable mobility solutions in the area.

Evocargo conducts unmanned electric truck trails at Dubai South

TCN Bureau
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Evocargo conducts unmanned electric truck trails at Dubai South
  • Initiative is key component of Dubai’s long-term goal to transition 25% of emirate’s total transportation to autonomous solutions by 2030.

Dubai South has successfully completed the first stage of the UAE’s autonomous vehicle trials in collaboration with Evocargo.

Conducted on a designated route within the Dubai South Logistics District, the trials focused on validating the hardware, software, and reliability of Evocargo’s unmanned electric truck, the Evocargo N1, for potential deployment in the district.

The tests specifically evaluated the autonomous truck’s performance in various scenarios involving mixed traffic, including interactions with automobiles, trucks, and pedestrians. Key aspects such as object detection, accident prevention, collision avoidance, and emergency stops were assessed to ensure safety and efficiency.

Undergoes rigorous testing

The autopilot system underwent rigorous testing in maneuvering tasks such as parking, reverse parking, turning, and reverse turning, while the functionality of the Control Centre for route management and monitoring was also verified.

Notably, the trials reported no failures or hazardous incidents, indicating the successful performance of the Evocargo N1 throughout the testing phases.

Evocargo compiled a detailed report covering the trial outcomes across two stages, with the second stage involving freight transportation tasks on a standard route within a closed area. The platform demonstrated adeptness in responding to the surrounding environment and met high validation standards.

Providing efficient logistics services

Mohsen Ahmad, CEO of the Logistics District – Dubai South, expressed pride in achieving this milestone, highlighting Dubai South’s dedication to supporting Dubai’s vision of becoming a global logistics hub through technological advancements.

He emphasised the pivotal role of autonomous vehicles in transforming the industry, improving efficiency, and reducing carbon emissions to establish a sustainable logistics infrastructure that benefits Dubai and the UAE.

Looking ahead, Ahmad noted the potential for autonomous vehicles to revolutionise the sector and drive economic growth.

Evocargo’s CEO, Ahmed Al Ansi, echoed this sentiment, said the company’s commitment to providing efficient logistics services in the region. He highlighted the trials as a means to attract new customers and investments in the GCC countries, positioning the region for leadership in innovative technologies.

Both Dubai South and Evocargo reaffirmed their commitment to sustainability by aligning the trials with the UAE’s vision for a sustainable future.

The initiative is a key component of Dubai’s long-term goal to transition 25 per cent of the emirate’s total transportation to autonomous solutions by 2030.

The Dubai Autonomous Transportation Strategy is projected to generate annual economic revenues of AED 22 billion across various sectors, signaling significant growth opportunities within the region.

Muller & Phipps Middle East swallows Power League Gaming

TCN Bureau
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Muller & Phipps Middle East swallows Power League Gaming
  • The convergence of technology, entertainment and innovation sets the stage for a dynamic future in the gaming and esports landscape of the MENA region.

Muller & Phipps Middle East Group, part of The Getz Group of Companies, has made a significant move in the technology and gaming industry by acquiring Power League Gaming, a prominent gaming and esports agency in the MENA region.

The strategic acquisition marks a new chapter for Muller & Phipps as they plan to expand their operations in Dubai and enter the booming market of Saudi Arabia by the fourth quarter of 2024.

Power League Gaming is renowned for its expertise in gaming and esports strategy, managing major esports events, creating gaming content, and influencer marketing.

Vast opportunities

With a track record of serving top-tier clients since 2013, Power League Gaming is at the forefront of shaping the future of brand engagement in the rapidly growing gaming sector.

The gaming market in Saudi Arabia has seen remarkable growth, with a substantial increase in gaming revenues and a sizable gamer population. The country’s ambitious plans, including a significant investment in gaming by the Public Investment Fund through its subsidiary Savvy Games, aim to establish Saudi Arabia as a leading hub for gaming and esports on a global scale by 2030.

With over 170 million gamers in the MENA region, the gaming and esports industry presents vast opportunities for growth and innovation.

Muller & Phipps Middle East Group Holdings, under the leadership of CEO Trevor Price, recognises the potential in this sector and aims to position themselves as the primary partner for gaming and esports strategies in the region.

Power League Gaming’s CEO, Matthew Pickering, highlights the rapid rise of gaming and esports in the region, fuelled by the influx of new users, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The commitment of Saudi Arabia to excel in the gaming industry further enhances the prospects for growth and development in the market.”

Evolving hotel experience: Blending human touch with tech

Contributor
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Evolving hotel experience: Blending human touch with tech
  • Hotels that haven’t embraced mobile technology throughout the guest journey might be falling behind.

When you think about staying in a hotel, what is it that creates lasting memories and makes you want to go back?

Maybe it’s personalised service when the bartender remembers your favourite drink or somebody in the housekeeping team leaves a thoughtful gift in your room. Great hospitality has always been about crafting experiences, and the human touch remains irreplaceable.

But in 2024, travellers also crave seamless experiences. This means contactless services, speedy check-in and out, and personalised recommendations. In fact, hotels that haven’t embraced mobile technology throughout the guest journey might be falling behind.

Saudi Arabia, with its Vision 2030 plan, is a prime example of this technological shift.  Hotel chain Yotel recently announced its first Saudi Arabian venture in NEOM’s OXAGON, to be opened in 2025.

Karl Escritt, CEO of Like Digital & Partners. 

This futuristic property will boast an automated reception, contactless check-in, SmartBeds that transform from a flatbed to a sofa with a touch, and even a robotic concierge. While some guests might find this approach ultra-modern, it highlights the digital revolution sweeping the hospitality industry.

Here are some of the key pillars hotels need to prioritise in the digital shift:

Understanding guest preferences

Really understanding guests’ needs and wants plays a big part in customer satisfaction. With all the data we now have at our fingertips, it’s easier than ever to get to know our customers better. Digital can take this to a whole new level.

Imagine a smart mattress that adjusts to your preferred temperature or a showerhead with customisable water pressure settings.  Combined with the human touch, this means staff being better equipped to provide tailored service, fostering a deeper understanding of their guests.

Streamlining operations with automation

Manual, time-consuming tasks like answering website questions can now be automated through chatbots. Additionally, revenue management software can integrate dynamic pricing strategies, manage inventory, and personalise upselling with targeted offers for room upgrades or spa treatments. 

In 2023, Palazzo Versace Dubai embraced automation by launching the first AI-based chatbot in the industry.  This chatbot tailors responses based on online user behaviour, reducing wait times and enhancing guest support.

The hotel also partnered with Binance, the cryptocurrency infrastructure provider to allow guests the option to settle payments in BNB, Bitcoin, Ethereum and others.

Eco-conscious hospitality

The environment is a growing priority for hotels, and digital innovation plays a crucial role in achieving sustainability goals. Rove Hotels and Conrad Dubai are just two examples of properties using AI-powered smart scales or inventory management systems to tackle food waste, a significant contributor to the hospitality industry’s environmental impact.

Digital signage, menus, and mobile keys further reduce paper and plastic usage within hotel operations.

By embracing these technologies, hotels can demonstrate their commitment to a greener future.

Rise of virtual and augmented reality

The COVID-19 pandemic forced a pause on travel, but Dubai Tourism leveraged technology to keep the dream alive. Partnering with Snapchat, they created a bespoke AR lens that transported people to iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Dubai Frame, and Al Seef.

Today, travellers crave a sense of familiarity before they arrive at their destination, and virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR) offer just that.

W Dubai – The Palm and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah are prime examples of Dubai hotels using AR to enhance guest experiences. Guests can scan the hotel’s artwork and sculptures with their smartphones, bringing them to life in a virtual world. 

Atlantis The Royal recently celebrated its first birthday with a campaign with Louis Vuitton, featuring statues around the hotel that come alive and tell a story through AR experiences. This innovative approach allows guests to engage with the hotel’s art and surroundings in a completely new way.

Wellness – Beyond the spa

Massages and facials are no longer the sole focus of a modern hotel spa. Many wellness experiences now leverage technology to personalise treatments. This could involve genetic testing or nutrigenomic analysis to recommend treatments based on your unique needs. SIRO One Za’abeel exemplifies this approach, combining biohacking technology with a holistic wellness experience. 

They’ve even incorporated app-controlled smart curtains in their bedrooms, programmed to adjust according to your circadian rhythm for a truly restorative sleep experience.

  • Karl Escritt is the CEO of Like Digital & Partners, an award-winning agency offering expert digital transformation services to the world’s leading luxury brands.

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