IBM has announced the launch of IBM z17, a mainframe specifically designed for the AI era, integrating AI components across hardware, software, and systems operations. This new mainframe is driven by the IBM Telum II processor, allowing an expansion beyond traditional transactional AI capabilities to accommodate new types of workloads.
"With z17, we're bringing AI to the core of the enterprise with the software, processing power, and storage to make AI operational quickly," stated Ross Mauri, the general manager of IBM Z and LinuxONE. The z17 mainframe aims to enhance enterprises' abilities to innovate and perform more efficiently. It can process 50% more AI inference operations daily compared to its predecessor, the z16, tackling over 250 AI applications such as loan risk mitigation and medical image analysis.
The development of the IBM z17 has been a five-year project involving more than 300 patent applications filed with the US Patent and Trademark Office. The system incorporates feedback from over 100 clients and collaboration with IBM Research and Software teams. The platform introduces new AI capabilities, security features, and usability improvements.
The z17's AI inferencing is powered by a second-generation on-chip AI accelerator in the Telum II processor, which has increased computing power and cache growth by 40%. IBM also previewed its upcoming AI-adaptive operating system version, z/OS 3.2, scheduled for release in the third quarter of 2025, supporting accelerated AI hardware capabilities and modern data access methods.
The hybrid integration of the IBM z17 system enhances performance while maintaining reliability, transforming the way developers and systems operators interact with IBM Z. IBM Z Operations Unite will be available from May 2025, and the IBM Spyre Accelerator is expected to launch in the fourth quarter of 2025 as a PCIe card addition.
Security and resiliency are pivotal characteristics of the z17. New security features include secrets management tools from HashiCorp and AI-powered data security solutions capable of identifying and classifying sensitive data.
IBM's support for the new system is ensured by IBM Technology Lifecycle Services, facilitating optimized environment performance and enhanced incident management. IBM Storage DS8000 complements IBM Z by providing efficient data performance and storage solutions.
IBM z17 will be available starting June 18, 2025. Further details can be found on IBM's website.