Samsung Secures $16.5 Billion Tesla Deal for AI Chip Supply in Landmark Semiconductor Shift

Samsung Electronics has clinched a historic $16.5 billion agreement to supply Tesla with next-generation AI chips for electric vehicles, marking the largest single-customer contract in the South Korean tech giant's history. The eight-year deal will see Samsung manufacture Tesla's AI6 chips at its new Texas facility, a strategic move bolstered by $40 billion in federal subsidies under the Chips and Science Act.

The partnership accelerates Tesla's autonomous driving ambitions while cementing Samsung's position in the high-stakes semiconductor arena. Elon Musk confirmed the deal via social media, noting the Texas plant's proximity will optimize production of chips for both Tesla's vehicle systems and Optimus humanoid robots. This collaboration represents a tectonic shift in tech manufacturing alliances as AI hardware demand surges.