What is Tensor Processing Unit (TPU)?
A Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) is a proprietary processor that was developed by Google in 2016 for use in neural networks and machine learning projects. Experts speak of these TPU processors that help achieve larger amounts of low-level processing at the same time.
Starting with an 8-bit setup based on CISC instructions, Google eventually increased the memory and bandwidth of these elements to achieve new types of performance.
Experts also point out that Google uses a mix-and-match system - rather than solely using tensor processing units, the company continues to encourage the use of CPUs and other resources along with the TPU.
"We are very happy about these new TPUs and would like to share them with the world so that everyone can access their advantages," says one part of the announcement to bring second-generation TPUs to Google Cloud. By offering the functionality of TPUs as part of a proprietary system, Google is able to maintain control of the TPUs and continue to use customers.