On Tuesday, April 8, 2025, IBM announced the launch of the z17, its latest generation mainframe designed to meet the demands of the artificial intelligence (AI) era. The z17 incorporates significant advancements in data processing and storage, aiming to provide businesses with greater efficiency while reducing energy consumption.
The new mainframe, available starting June 18, features the Telum II processor and the Spyre Accelerator, technologies developed to enhance processing and data storage capabilities. These components enable the z17 to perform 50% more AI inference operations per day compared to its predecessor, supporting over 250 AI use cases across various industries.
Elpida Tzortzatos, IBM Fellow and CTO of z/OS and AI at IBM Z, emphasizes that infrastructure is crucial for the success of AI projects, especially with the increasing complexity brought by generative AI. She highlights that efficiency and sustainability are key challenges in implementing these technologies.
The z17 is designed to support the “multimodal” use of AIs, combining different generations to meet specific client needs. Tzortzatos notes that predictive AI will continue to be used alongside generative AI to address various problems, as no single AI can solve all issues.
Additionally, IBM aims to offer a solution that allows monitoring of governance, data provenance, biases, and provides explainability in AI decisions, ensuring compliance throughout the AI lifecycle.
With the launch of the z17, IBM reinforces its commitment to delivering advanced technological solutions that combine performance, energy efficiency, and sustainability, addressing the growing demands of businesses in the artificial intelligence era.