Digital transformation is a vast concept, with elements like artificial intelligence (AI), connectivity, and infrastructure playing a vital role. The Edge AI Program, a venture by Dell Technologies and Intel, aims to simplify enterprise adoption of these technologies by offering a cohesive package.
Caroline Chan, Vice President of Intel’s Network and Edge Group, emphasized the benefits of running AI on-premise. This approach enhances security, reduces latency, and offers better economic value than relying on cloud-based solutions. “Right now with AI, everything is happening in the cloud,” she stated during an interview. Moving data analytics to the edge allows for immediate, data-driven business decisions without the need to send data back to the cloud.
Dell and Intel’s collaborative initiative focuses on several key areas. Their joint offering includes optimized edge AI applications ready for deployment on Dell’s PowerEdge XR8000 server platforms, equipped with Intel Xeon processors. This setup supports efficient AI deployment, catering to use cases such as computer vision without the need for discrete GPUs. By fine-tuning the tech stack for specific outcomes, enterprises can significantly cut the total cost of ownership.
Additionally, varied connectivity solutions like wired, Wi-Fi, or private cellular can integrate with Dell and Intel’s platform. The program’s ease of implementation and market readiness reduce the time to value. The broad range of solutions derives its strength from the global partnerships of Dell and Intel, spanning diverse industries and use cases.
Suresh Raam, Director of Telecom Hardware Partnerships and AI Ecosystem at Dell Technologies, highlighted the program’s ability to offer pre-verified AI applications on scalable, flexible servers. With a sled architecture, these servers can be tailored to different deployment sizes and AI tasks. Moreover, the collaboration benefits from an extensive ecosystem of technology partners, enhancing the offering’s reach. A preview of ten new edge AI applications, co-developed with Amdocs, Betacom, Druid, and others, is planned for release.
“Enterprise AI is not a technology set,” Chan noted. “It’s a solution set.” By understanding the business problem, the program focuses on offering tailored solutions.
