The deal is the latest sign that floating data centers are moving from concept to execution as developers confront land, power, and cooling constraints around hyperscale AI infrastructure. Related:Riding the Wave: The Rise of Floating Data CentersFrom Concept to EngineeringSHI unveiled the concept at the Posidonia 2026 exhibition in June, positioning floating data centers as an alternative where sites, power, and water are constrained. (Image: Samsung Heavy Industries)Momentum Builds for Floating Data CentersSamsung joins a growing list of companies exploring floating data centers as demand for AI infrastructure intensifies. In April 2026, MOL also announced a separate partnership with Hitachi to develop floating data centers using converted vessels, targeting commercial deployment starting in 2027. Whether floating data centers prove commercially viable at scale remains to be seen.