Cisco launches local computing device for AI tasks
- ByStartupStory | November 4, 2025
Cisco Launches Local Computing Device to Power AI Workflows at the Edge
Networking and communications giant Cisco Systems has unveiled a new localized computing platform designed specifically for artificial intelligence (AI) workloads at edge locations such as retail stores, factory floors, healthcare facilities, and branch offices. Named “Cisco Unified Edge,” this innovative device integrates computing, networking, storage, and security functions to bring AI processing closer to the source of data generation, addressing the growing computational demands and latency sensitivity of advanced AI models.
As AI agents and applications proliferate, they increasingly need to be deployed closer to where customer interactions and operational decisions occur. Cisco Unified Edge enables real-time AI inferencing and operational insights without relying solely on centralized cloud data centers, which can face bottlenecks and scalability challenges due to increasing network traffic generated by complex AI reasoning and multimodal workloads.
Equipped with Intel processors and designed for easy deployment, the Cisco Unified Edge platform has already garnered interest from early adopters including Verizon. It offers zero-touch deployment and centralized remote management capabilities through Cisco’s Intersight platform, with embedded observability via tools like Splunk and ThousandEyes to ensure end-to-end service quality and security monitoring.
Industry analysts highlight that over 75% of enterprise data are expected to be generated and processed at the edge in 2025, underscoring the strategic importance of distributed AI infrastructures. By enabling AI computing at the edge, Cisco aims to deliver ultra-low latency, improved bandwidth efficiency, enhanced data privacy, and greater operational resilience, all critical for mission-critical applications in industries such as manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and financial services.
Cisco’s Chief Product Officer Jeetu Patel emphasized, “Today’s infrastructure cannot meet the demands of powering AI at scale in real time. With Unified Edge, we are making it easier for organizations to deploy and scale AI-powered workflows where they matter most—right at the edge.”
This launch complements Cisco’s broader AI strategy, which includes embedding AI capabilities throughout its network infrastructure to optimize wireless, mobile, and cloud services, positioning Cisco as a key enabler of the next era of intelligent connectivity.
In summary, Cisco’s Unified Edge platform represents a critical evolution in AI infrastructure, delivering localized compute power tailored for distributed, latency-sensitive AI workloads. This innovation supports enterprises in harnessing AI’s full potential with improved performance, security, and flexibility across diverse industry environments.
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