Compute refers to the processing, memory, storage, and hardware resources used to train, run, or serve an AI system. In AI governance and operations, compute is a key factor in cost, scalability, performance, and environmental impact.
Compute is defined by the Independent Review of the Future of Compute as 'the systems assembled at scale to tackle computational tasks beyond the capabilities of everyday computers. This includes both physical supercomputers and the use of cloud provision to tackle high computational loads.' Compute is a driver of AI developments (PB 57).