IBM z17 Launches with Built-In AI for Enterprise Workloads

IBM (NYSE: IBM) has announced the IBM z17, the next-generation mainframe fully designed with artificial intelligence capabilities. Built on the new IBM Telum® II processor, the z17 takes a major step forward by extending beyond transactional AI into new AI-powered workloads.

The new system supports more than 250 enterprise use cases. These include tasks like loan risk mitigation, chatbot management, retail crime detection, and medical image analysis. According to IBM, the z17 can process 50% more AI inference operations per day than the previous generation, the z16. It is also designed to score 100% of transactions in real-time.

The IBM z17 results from five years of development and over 300 patent applications. The system was built with insights from more than 100 clients, in collaboration with IBM Research and Software teams. It introduces multi-model AI, enhanced security, and tools for better usability through AI.

With its second-gen on-chip AI accelerator, the z17 performs over 450 billion inferencing operations daily, delivering one-millisecond response times. IBM has also previewed the IBM Spyre™ Accelerator, expected in Q4 2025, to offer even more AI computing through a PCIe card. This card is engineered to support generative AI models and run enterprise assistants on the mainframe.

Developers and IT teams will benefit from integrated AI agents like IBM watsonx Code Assistant for Z and watsonx Assistant for Z. For the first time, the latter will also be integrated with Z Operations Unite. This will allow AI-powered, chat-based incident detection using live data.

Ross Mauri, GM of IBM Z and LinuxONE, said, “AI is only as valuable as the infrastructure it runs on. With z17, we’re bringing AI to the core of the enterprise.”

The new system is designed to operate seamlessly in hybrid environments. IBM z17 combines hardware innovations with software capabilities and support for open standards. Developers and system operators can expect enhanced performance and simplified management.

Alongside z17, IBM previewed z/OS 3.2, its upcoming operating system version, expected in Q3 2025. z/OS 3.2 will support hardware-accelerated AI, improved system insights, and hybrid data processing. It also adds support for NoSQL databases and modern access methods.

To unify operations, IBM announced IBM Z Operations Unite. Launching in May 2025, it will streamline data and performance monitoring through OpenTelemetry. Combined with IBM Concert, the system will use AI to detect anomalies and reduce resolution times.

Security remains a key feature. IBM Vault, now available on IBM Z, manages secrets across hybrid environments using identity-based access. Future capabilities will also include AI-powered data classification and anomaly detection through IBM Threat Detection for z/OS.

Support for the new platform is expanding. IBM Technology Lifecycle Services now offers AI-driven support for z17 to enhance case resolution times and reduce operational risk.

Storage is also optimized. IBM Storage DS8000 (10th Gen) works with z17 to deliver consistent performance and secure access to mission-critical workloads. The modular design allows organizations to adopt new IBM-backed technologies while improving data value.

IBM z17 will be generally available starting June 18, 2025. The IBM Spyre™ Accelerator will follow in Q4 2025.