Artificial intelligence startup Anthropic has signed a $1.8 billion computing deal with Akamai Technologies to meet surging demand for its AI software. The agreement comes as Akamai expands its cloud infrastructure business and positions its distributed network for AI workloads. Anthropic’s agreement with Akamai covers cloud computing services over seven years.
The deal supports the growing use of Anthropic’s Claude software, which more customers now use for coding, workflow support, and other business tasks.
Akamai earlier said that a ‘leading frontier model provider’ had committed $1.8 billion for cloud infrastructure services. The company did not name the customer in its release. However, people familiar with the matter identified Anthropic as the buyer of the computing services.
The agreement is the largest deal in Akamai’s history. It also gives the company a major AI customer as it seeks growth beyond its long-running content delivery and cybersecurity businesses.
Akamai shares jumped after the opening bell on Friday following the earnings release and the $1.8 billion AI cloud contract. The stock rose about 20% early in the session, while later trading showed gains of roughly 28% at about $149.05.
See What’s Next in Tech With the Fast Forward Newsletter
Tweets From @varindiamag
Nothing to see here - yet
When they Tweet, their Tweets will show up here.
