The Future of AI Consumption

What powers the AI revolution? Digital Realty CTO Chris Sharp joins us to explore the evolution of data centers—from invisible infrastructure to the epicenter of next-gen compute.--How did data centers transform from invisible infrastructure to the epicenter of the AI revolution? In this fascinating conversation with Chris Sharp, Chief Technology Officer at Digital Realty, we explore the remarkable evolution of digital infrastructure over the past two decades.Chris shares his unique perspective from 20+ years in the industry, walking us through the major technological shifts that have reshaped the landscape—from the early networking days through the cloud computing revolution and into today's AI-powered future. He offers an illuminating framework for understanding the economics of AI infrastructure: "tokens to Watts to dollars," which elegantly captures the computational output, power requirements, and financial considerations driving decisions in this space.The conversation takes us behind the scenes of what's really happening in the race to build AI infrastructure. While headlines focus on companies grabbing land for data centers, Chris reveals the deeper complexities: the engineering expertise required to support ultra-high-density computing, the critical power constraints limiting growth in key markets, and the fascinating emergence of nuclear solutions to these energy challenges.We also explore the global dynamics at play, from data sovereignty concerns to the risk of countries falling behind if they can't develop adequate power infrastructure. Chris provides valuable insight into how Digital Realty thinks about capital allocation across markets and the evolution of interconnection strategies to support distributed AI workloads.Whether you're interested in technology infrastructure, renewable energy, or the economics of AI, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into the physical foundation supporting our increasingly digital world. Listen now to understand the critical but often overlooked systems enabling the AI revolution.--🚀 Uplink explores the future of connectivity, cloud, and AI—with the people shaping it. Hosted by Michael Reid, we dive into cutting-edge trends with top industry experts.👍 Follow the show, leave a rating, and let us know what you think. New episodes every two weeks.🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. All streaming links available at: https://www.uplinkpod.com/📺 Watch video episodes on Youtube: https://mp1.tech/uplink-on-youtube🔗 Learn more: Digital Realty – https://www.digitalrealty.com/Megaport – https://www.megaport.com/#AI #CloudComputing #DataCenters #DigitalInfrastructure #Podcast