Intel talks stall as AI chip startup SambaNova hunts up to $500 million in fresh funding
SambaNova Systems is considering a funding round that could reach $500 million after its talks to sell the AI chip startup to Intel hit a dead end, Bloomberg News reported Wednesday, citing sources familiar with the situation. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-01-21/sambanova-seeks-up-to-500-million-funding-after-intel-takeover-talks-stall The move comes at a sensitive time in the AI hardware sector. Major chipmakers are expanding their AI product ranges, while venture-backed startups scramble to manage cash flow and keep pace in a field largely controlled by a few key players.