Microsoft has announced plans to invest £2.5 billion in the UK’s artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure over the next three years.This investment will involve doubling its data centre footprint in the country, expanding its Accelerating Fundamental Models Research programme, and training over one million people in AI skills.
The company intends to grow its data centre presence in London and Cardiff and potentially expand further into northern England, with the aim of creating over 20,000 AI-related jobs in the UK. The UK government has described this as the largest investment in the country’s history. The investment will also support education programmes focused on training individuals in AI capabilities and skills.
“This is the single largest investment in its 40-year history in the country which will see Microsoft grow its UK AI infrastructure,” according to a press release from the UK Government. “This £2.5 billion commitment was confirmed on Monday [27 November] as the prime minister Rishi Sunak unveiled £29.5 billion of investment in our most innovative sectors, including technology, life sciences, renewables, housing and infrastructure at the Global Investment Summit.”
Microsoft will be focusing on improving AI infrastructure, developing technical skills, supporting business transformation, and promoting secure and responsible AI use. Additionally, the company will enhance its own infrastructure with AI safety and security measures.
“As business and the public sector embrace the AI opportunity, we are building the infrastructure that will support the growth they need, training the people who can deliver it responsibly and securing our society against emergent threats,” said Clare Barclay, CEO of Microsoft UK.