Emerging-stage startup Modular has raised a $250 million funding round at a $1.6 billion valuation, signalling strong investor appetite for AI-infrastructure platforms. The startup offers software that allows AI workloads to run across different hardware chips, positioning itself as a challenger to incumbents. The deal highlights a broader pattern: investors increasingly favour scalable AI infrastructure and platform plays over niche apps. Experts say the real test will be how these firms convert funding into profitable and sustainable business models.