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Huawei Set to Launch AI Chip to Compete with Nvidia
China’s Huawei Technologies is on the verge of launching a new artificial intelligence chip as a counter to Nvidia’s dominance in the market, according to a recent report from the Wall Street Journal. This development follows a wave of U.S. sanctions that have impacted technology transfers to China.
The upcoming chip, named Ascend 910C, is currently undergoing testing by various Chinese internet and telecommunications firms. Reports suggest that Huawei has informed potential clients that the performance of this chip is similar to that of Nvidia’s advanced H100 model.
As a backdrop, U.S. regulatory measures last year hindered Nvidia’s ability to sell high-performance chips, including the H100, to Chinese enterprises, with officials citing national security as a primary concern. In response, Nvidia released three alternative chips specifically designed for the Chinese market. The most notable among these are the H20 chips, which, while still powerful, have had their capabilities significantly limited compared to the original H100.
The Wall Street Journal further indicated that Huawei intends to begin shipping the Ascend 910C within the month of October. Major companies in China, like ByteDance, Baidu, and China Mobile, are actively seeking to procure these chips.
Initial discussions between Huawei and prospective buyers reflect a considerable demand, with expectations that orders could exceed 70,000 units, translating to an estimated total value of around $2 billion.
The introduction of the Ascend 910C could significantly shift the landscape of AI technology in China, especially in light of the ongoing tensions surrounding U.S.-China technology relations.
Source
finance.yahoo.com