Research Note: Red Hat Releases OpenShift 4.18
Red Hat recently released OpenShift 4.18, bringing enhancements to the solution for networking, virtualization, security, and deployment flexibility.
Enterprise Infrastructure Tracker: March 2025
We’re barely two months into the new year and already the enterprise infrastructure market is heating up.
Here’s what caught our attention over the past month:
Research Note: IBM FlashSystem C200 High-Capacity Flash Archive
IBM recently announced its FlashSystem C200, a new storage platform integrating 46 TB QLC NAND drives to provide an archive tier within a FlashSystem grid. The C200 expands IBM’s FlashSystem portfolio with a high-density flash solution that competes with traditional nearline HDD storage.
IBM claims the C200 provides flash-like performance with QLC-level economics, enhanced endurance, and seamless grid integration.
March Survey Round-Up: AI is Booming, But Data Quality & Security Haunt Leaders
Who doesn’t love a good survey? We’ve combed through a bumper crop of new surveys on AI and tech trends for 2025 to find the bottom line: Executives can’t pump the brakes on AI spending — but lousy data, security holes, and an alarming skills gap could cause serious headaches.
Let’s look at what we’ve learned from February’s batch of surveys tell us about the state of enterprise IT.
NAND Insider Newsletter: March 3, 2025
Every week NAND Research puts out a newsletter for our industry customers taking a look at what’s driving the week, and what happened last week that caught our attention. Below is a excerpt from this week’s, March 3, 2025.
Research Note: IBM to Acquire DataStax
IBM recently announced its intent to acquire DataStax, which specializes in NoSQL and vector database solutions built on Apache Cassandra.
The acquisition aligns with IBM’s broader strategy to enhance its watsonx enterprise AI stack by integrating advanced data management capabilities, particularly for handling unstructured and semi-structured data.
Research Note: IBM Granite 3.2 Models
IBM recently introduced Granite 3.2, bringing significant new capabilities to its AI model lineup that brings enhanced reasoning, multimodal capabilities, improved forecasting, and more efficient safety models.
Research Note: Palo Alto Networks Cortex Cloud
Palo Alto Networks recently introduced Cortex Cloud, its integrated cloud security and security operations (SecOps) platform that consolidates the capabilities of Prisma Cloud and Cortex CDR.
The new platform provides a unified approach to managing cloud security risks, real-time threat prevention, and automated response workflows.
NAND Insider Newsletter: January 21, 2025
Every week NAND Research puts out a newsletter for our industry customers. Below is an excerpt from this week’s.
Research Note: IBM Consulting Acquires Oracle Specialist AST
IBM announced that it intends to acquire Applications Software Technology(AST), a leading global Oracle consultancy. AST specializes in delivering digital transformation solutions via Oracle Cloud Applications, with a focus on the public sector, including local governments and K-12 education.
Quick Take: CoreWeave & IBM Partner on NVIDIA Grace Blackwell Supercomputing
IBM and CoreWeave, a leading AI specialty AI cloud provider, together announced a collaboration to deliver one of the first NVIDIA GB200 Grace Blackwell Superchip-enabled AI supercomputers to market.
Are IT Organizations Ready for the GenAI Revolution? Let’s Ask.
Over the past few months, we’ve seen surveys published by tech companies across the spectrum that show us how gen AI is forcing IT organizations to assess their readiness for its adoption and deployment. The surveys offer a comprehensive view of the industry’s current stance, showing enthusiasm balanced by caution around organizational and infrastructure challenges.
Let’s examine recent surveys from the tech industry itself to see what they say about IT’s readiness to tackle the challenges of generative AI.
Insights from the 2024 IBM Quantum Developer Conference
IBM Research last week hosted its inaugural Quantum Developer Conference where the company highlighted significant advancements in quantum computing hardware, software, and integration with classical computing.
Research Note: IBM Granite 3.0 Models
IBM recently released Granite 3.0, its third generation of LLMs, designed to balance performance with safety, speed, and cost-efficiency for enterprise use. Its flagship model, Granite 3.0 8B Instruct, is a dense, instruction-tuned LLM optimized for enterprise tasks, trained on 12 trillion tokens across multiple languages and programming languages.
Research Note: IBM QisKit Performance & Quality Leadership
IBM recently announced that its Qiskit emerged as the highest-performing SDK in terms of both speed and quality inrecent benchmarking tests to evaluate quantum software development kits. These tests measured how efficiently SDKs could build, manipulate, synthesize, and transpile quantum circuits. Qiskit passed more tests than any other SDK and demonstrated superior performance metrics, outperforming competitors like TKET.
Quick Take: IBM Acquires Kubecost for Kubernetes Cost Monitoring & Optimization
IBM announced its acquisition of Kubecost, a leading provider of Kubernetes cost monitoring and optimization software. The move aims to expand IBM’s FinOps capabilities and address the growing need for cloud infrastructure cost management.
Research Note: IBM Boosts Oracle Consulting with Accelalpha Acquisition & Consulting Expansion
IBM recently announced its intent to acquire Accelalpha, a global provider of Oracle Cloud consulting services, as part of its strategy to expand its Oracle consulting expertise and enhance its broader consulting capabilities. Accelalpha’s specialized knowledge in supply chain, logistics, finance, and enterprise performance management bolsters IBM’s ability to help clients accelerate their digital transformations.
Quick Take: Intel Gaudi 3 on IBM Cloud
IBM and Intel announced a partnership to integrate Intel’s Gaudi 3 AI accelerators into IBM Cloud, which will be available in early 2025. This collaboration aims to enhance the scalability and affordability of enterprise AI, focusing on performance, security, and energy efficiency. IBM Cloud will be the first cloud provider to offer Gaudi 3, which […]
Research Note: IBM DS8000 Mainframe Storage
IBM introduced its tenth-generation DS8000 mainframe storage, designed to store more data and access it faster. The new lineup includes the DS8A10 entry-level product and the larger DS8A50, which succeed previous models like the DS8910F, DS8950F, and DS8980F.
Research Note: IBM Telum II & Spyre AI Accelerators
At the Hot Chips 2024 conference in Palo Alto, California, IBM unveiled the next generationj of enterprise AI solutions: the IBM Telum II processor and the IBM Spyre Accelerator. These new technologies should meet the demands of the AI era, providing enhanced performance, scalability, and AI capabilities. Both are expected to be available in 2025.
IBM Algorithms Included in 1st NIST Post-Quantum Cryptography Standards
Two IBM-developed algorithms are now officially included in the world’s first post-quantum cryptography standards, published by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
Research Note: IBM Q2 2024 Earnings
IBM reported a robust second quarter, surpassing expectations across key financial metrics. The company continues to capitalize on its hybrid cloud and AI strategy, driving solid performance in software and infrastructure. However, consulting services experienced slower growth due to macroeconomic challenges.
Research Note: Microsoft & IBM’s Expanded Cyber Security Alliance
Microsoft and IBM announced an enhanced collaboration to strengthen the cybersecurity capabilities of clients navigating hybrid cloud environments.
The partnership leverages IBM Consulting’s industry-leading cybersecurity services and Microsoft’s comprehensive security technology portfolio to provide advanced, integrated solutions for modern security operations and cloud identity management.
Quick Take: IBM & AWS Collaborate on Responsible AI
At the IBM Think conference, IBM announced a collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to integrate the full suite of IBM’s watsonx AI and data platform with AWS services. The partnership helps streamline enterprise AI scaling through an open, hybrid approach with comprehensive governance.
Research Note: IBM InstructLab LLM Tool Kit
At IBM’s 2024 Think conference in Boston, IBM Research unveiled InstructLab, developed in collaboration with Red Hat, to address the inefficiencies of existing training approaches by enabling collaborative, cost-effective model customization.
Quick Take: IBM and Salesforce Strategic Partnership
At IBM Think in Boston this week, IBM and Salesforce announced an expanded strategic partnership integrating IBM’s watsonx AI and Data Platform capabilities with the Salesforce Einstein 1 Platform. This collaboration gives enterprise customers great choice and flexibility in AI and data deployment.
Research Brief: IBM & Palo Alto Networks Strategic Partnership
IBM and Palo Alto Networks recently entered into a groundbreaking partnership, driving a substantial shift in the cybersecurity landscape. The new collaboration leverages each company’s strengths to enhance AI-powered customer security outcomes, while also moving IBM’s QRadar offering to Palo Alto Networks.
Research Note: IBM QisKit 1.0 Quantum SDK Release
IBM released significant enhancements to Qiskit, its widely used quantum software platform. These enhancements show its evolution from a software development kit launched in 2017 into a comprehensive software stack.
Quick Take: IBM Power S1012
IBM expanded its server portfolio with the introduction of its new IBM Power S1012. Based on IBM’s Power10 processor, the new server offers up to three times more performance per core compared to its predecessor, the Power S812, in a 1-socker half-width form factor.
Research Note: IBM Open Sources Granite Code Models
IBM is releasing its Granite code models to the open-source community, aiming to simplify coding for a broad range of developers. The Granite models, part of IBM’s wider initiative to harness AI in software development, range from 3 to 34 billion parameters and include base and instruction-following variants.
Quick Take: IBM’s Storage Assurance Program
IBM announced its new IBM Storage Assurance program. IBM’s new IT lifecycle management option aims to maximize performance and provide clients with enhanced choice and control within the data center.
Research Note: IBM FlashSystem 5300
IBM launched its new IBM FlashSystem 5300, a new entry-level storage solution with exceptional price performance, high availability, and enterprise-class data services within a compact 1U rack unit. The new array meets the needs of both small and large organizations facing the challenges of resource-constrained data centers and demanding workloads.
Research Note: IBM FQ1 2024 Earnings
IBM’s recently announced fiscal Q1 2024 earnings show a steady trajectory of growth as IBM successfully executes its strategic shift towards hybrid cloud and AI. The technology giant’s software and consulting segments led the charge, driving revenue increases and demonstrating the ongoing success of IBM’s focus on enterprise solutions.
Research Note: IBM Acquires HashiCorp
IBM announced its intention to acquire HashiCorp, a multi-cloud infrastructure automation company, for $35 per share in cash, totaling an enterprise value of $6.4 billion.
HashiCorp specializes in Infrastructure Lifecycle Management and Security Lifecycle Management, crucial for hybrid and multi-cloud environments. This move aligns with IBM’s focus on hybrid cloud and AI, which are vital for today’s businesses.
Quick Take: IBM & the GSMA’s Collaboration for GenAI Adoption in Telecom
The GSMA and IBM recently announced a significant new collaboration to promote the adoption and development of generative artificial intelligence (AI) skills within the telecom industry.
This partnership launches through two main initiatives: the GSMA Advance’s AI Training program and the GSMA Foundry Generative AI program.
Research Note: IBM’s Enhanced FlashSystem Malware Detection
IBM’s new FlashSystem ransomware detection capabilities are driven by advanced AI technologies, new fourth-generation FlashCore Module (FCM) technology, and IBM Storage Defender software enhancements.
Quick Take: IBM Acquisition of Advanced’s Application Modernization Division
IBM announced the pending acquisition of application modernization capabilities from Advanced, a strategic move by IBM to bolster its position in hybrid cloud and AI. The terms of the deal were not disclosed, but is expected to close in the second quarter of 2024.
This acquisition will enhance IBM Consulting’s services in mainframe application and data modernization, marking a significant step in IBM’s ongoing commitment to supporting clients through their digital transformation journeys.
After A Year: Checking in on IBM Ceph
It’s been about a year since IBM brought Red Hat’s OpenShift Data into the IBM Storage group. In that time, IBM has focused on addressing data challenges in AI scaling and the storage requirements to support the rapidly growing data, along with various formats and locations, within the modern hybrid-cloud enterprise.
Research Note: IBM’s 4Q 2023 Earnings Results
IBM announced its fourth-quarter 2023 earnings, highlighting significant revenue growth across all segments, driven by the adoption of its hybrid cloud and AI offerings. The company beat analyst expectations for both revenue and income.
Research Note: IBM Research’s Breakthrough in Error Mitigation/Correction for Quantum Computing
In a new paper published in the journal Nature, IBM Research describes a new approach that addresses a fundamental challenge in quantum computing: the vulnerability of quantum hardware to errors caused by environmental noise. This issue is a significant hurdle in developing and operating utility-scale quantum circuits, which are essential for practical applications of quantum computing.
Research Note: IBM Introduces New Consulting Advantage
IBM Consulting is introducing a significant advancement in business consulting with the launch of IBM Consulting Advantage. This new AI services platform aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of IBM consultants in their client engagements. It incorporates proprietary methods, assets, and AI-driven Assistants, drawing on IBM’s technological prowess and strategic partnerships.
Research Note: IBM Acquires Advanced
IBM announced a definitive agreement to acquire application modernization capabilities from Advanced, positioned by IBM as a strategic move to bolster its position in hybrid cloud and AI.
IBM And Meta Launch an AI Alliance for Safe AI
Created by IBM and Meta, the AI Alliance is a testament to the belief that open and transparent innovation is crucial for harnessing AI advancements in a way that prioritizes safety, diversity, and widespread economic opportunity.
IBM Introduces New Quantum Computing Processors & Platforms
IBM recently announced significant advancements in both quantum processors and platforms for quantum computing at its Quantum Summit 2023.
In doing so, IBM highlighted several significant advancements in quantum computing, showcasing the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of this revolutionary technology.
IBM Introduces watsonx.governance for AI Governance
IBM’s focus on enterprise-readiness continues with its announcement of watsonx.governance, designed to assist business in managing and governing AI models, will be generally available in early December.
Research Note: Inside IBM’s Advances in Software Development for Quantum Computing
Recognizing that these scientists require tools that integrate seamlessly with their existing workflows while simplifying the complexities of quantum mechanics, IBM introduced a suite of innovative solutions at its recent Quantum Computing Summit.
At the forefront of these advancements is Qiskit 1.0, a significant upgrade to IBM’s open-source quantum computing software development kit, which simplifies the process of programming quantum computers.
Research Note: Inside IBM’s Developments in Quantum Processing & Platforms
IBM this week announced significant advancements in both quantum processors and platforms for quantum computing at its Quantum Summit 2023. At the event, IBM highlighted several significant advancements in quantum computing, showcasing the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of this revolutionary technology.
IBM Launches $500M AI Venture Fund
IBM this week unveiled a $500 million venture fund to invest in AI companies, ranging from early-stage startups to high-growth enterprises.
IBM Introduces its Storage Scale System 6000
IBM recently introduced its Storage Scale System 6000. IBM’s cloud-scale global software-defined data platform addresses the escalating demands of data-intensive workloads and artificial intelligence (AI) applications.
Research Note: Inside the IBM Research NorthPole Accelerator
IBM Research has developed and released details on a groundbreaking AI chip called NorthPole, which could revolutionize AI hardware systems. Unlike traditional computer chips, NorthPole integrates processing units and memory on the same chip, eliminating the von Neumann bottleneck and significantly improving efficiency.
IBM Acquires Manta, Bolsters Watson.x
IBM announced the acquisition of Manta Software for an undisclosed amount. Manta is a leading data lineage platform that allows enterprises to understand their data better.
IBM Releases Granite Foundation Models for Enterprise AI
IBM takes a big step towards addressing enterprise requirements for generative AI with its new Granite Foundation Models. Let’s look at what IBM announced.
Research Note: Inside IBM WatsonX
IBM recently unveiled its updated AI portfolio, “watsonx” The new set of offerings provides an enterprise-ready AI and data platform consisting of three intertwined solution stacks:
IBM FlashSystem 5045 Arrives With Enhanced Data Resilience Capabilities
IBM introduced its new entry-level FlashSystem 5045 release are a broad set of features that bring enhanced data protection and cyber-resiliency into IBM’s entry-level flash storage space.
IBM Extends FinOps And Cloud Management Capabilities Acquisition of Apptio
IBM this week announced its intention to acquire Apptio, a leader in IT financial and technology business management, for $4.6B in an all-cash deal.
Inside the IBM FlashSystem Realtime Ransomware Detection
Background As the market for cybersecurity products explodes, we’re also beginning to see innovative approaches to detecting threats built into the infrastructure. A storage array, for example, should be able to detect data corruption. After all, storage is where your data lives. The challenge, however, is that a storage array often needs more context to […]
IBM Introduces New Z-Series and LinuxONE Rack-Friendly Configurations Focused on Sustainability
In an environment where IT sustainability is a critical element of nearly every enterprise’s ESG goals, the LinuxONE and Z16 stories are compelling. Even without sustainability as a goal, the nearly 40:1 consolidation ratio of LinuxONE to x86-based servers is unbeatable by any other solution.
The 2023 Enterprise Storage Agenda
2023 is going to be an exciting year in enterprise storage. Principal Analyst Steve McDowell walks us through his predictions for the storage industry over the coming calendar year.