Meta Platforms is in early-stage discussions to lease computing power from its AI data centers to AI startup Anthropic, in a deal that could be worth as much as $10 billion over two years, according to multiple reports. The proposed arrangement, first reported by The New York Times, would see Anthropic pay Meta in monthly increments over the two-year period, with both companies able to opt out early. The talks remain in early stages and may not result in a final agreement.
For Meta, the deal represents a significant strategic opportunity. The social media giant plans to spend between $125 billion and $145 billion in capital expenditures this year which is more than double last year's spending largely to support its AI infrastructure buildout. CEO Mark Zuckerberg has previously acknowledged that leasing excess computing capacity is an option if Meta's own needs don't keep pace with its massive infrastructure expansion.
For Anthropic, the deal would add to its growing portfolio of compute licensing agreements, which already includes partnerships with Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and a $45 billion, three-year deal with SpaceX signed in May.
Industry analysts note that a $10 billion deal would represent only about 7% of Meta's projected 2026 capital expenditure, a meaningful start but far from sufficient to alleviate investor concerns about the company's massive AI spending. Nonetheless, the talks underscore the intense global demand for AI computing power as tech giants race to build out infrastructure and leading AI labs scramble to secure capacity.