TPU

Abbreviation with 2 meanings

TPU
Stands forTensor Processing Unit
Meanings2
CategoriesTechnology & Computing

TPU has two meanings. It stands for Tensor Processing Unit (computer hardware) or Thermoplastic polyurethane (consumer electronics).

Meanings of TPU at a glance

#TPU stands forContext
1Tensor Processing UnitTechnology & Computing › Computer Hardware
2Thermoplastic polyurethaneTechnology & Computing › Consumer Electronics

1. Tensor Processing Unit

Technology & Computing · Computer Hardware Abbreviations

Google's custom chip for machine learning, designed to accelerate the tensor (multi-dimensional array) operations at the heart of neural networks. TPUs train and serve Google's own models, including Gemini, and are rented to customers through Google Cloud.

Example: We trained the model on a TPU v5e pod instead of renting GPUs.

Google revealed the TPU in 2016, saying it had already been running in its data centers for more than a year. Successive generations are linked into "pods" of thousands of chips; the seventh generation, Ironwood, was announced in 2025. Small Edge TPUs, sold under the Coral brand, run models in cameras and embedded devices. In phone accessories, TPU means a flexible plastic case material.

2. Thermoplastic polyurethane

Technology & Computing · Consumer Electronics Abbreviations

Flexible, rubbery plastic widely used for phone cases, screen-protector edges, watch bands and cable jackets because it absorbs shocks and grips well. Clear TPU cases are common and inexpensive.

Example: The clear TPU case turned yellow after a year in the sun.

TPU is softer than polycarbonate, so "hybrid" cases often combine a TPU bumper with a hard back. Clear TPU yellows over time because of ultraviolet light and oxidation. It is also a popular flexible filament for 3D printing. In computing, TPU means Google's Tensor Processing Unit.

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More consumer electronics abbreviations

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  • TRS – Tip, ring, sleeve
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Edited by the AbbreviationList.com team. Spotted an error or a missing meaning? Contact us.