It is designed based on the open source, free RISC-V script architecture. Alibaba's new processor does not encounter restrictions from ...
It is designed based on the open source, free RISC-V script architecture. Alibaba's new processor does not encounter restrictions from the US technology export ban.
Last Thursday, China Group Alibaba Group Holding introduced its first self-designed microprocessor. This has put an important mark on China's efforts to promote chip autonomy amid conflicts with the US over technology issues.
According to Alibaba's statement, the new processor could be used by Chinese device manufacturers to equip: smart speakers, self-driving cars and necessary internet-connected devices for signaling. high productivity.
While Alibaba does not plan to use this processor for themselves. Chinese chip makers such as Semiconductor Manufacturing International (SMIC) can produce the chip for other devices under an e-commerce company's license.
Alibaba's new processor could help the company follow the path of British firm ARM Holdings when designing and licensing chip licenses. There are up to 90% of smartphone chips based on ARM chip designs. Like many other Chinese companies, Huawei is also based on ARM designs to create its Kirin chip. But the US government's ban imposed on the company also questioned the possibility of long-term cooperation with the British company.
With encouragement from the Chinese government, a number of Chinese companies have been engaged in semiconductor in recent years. Some of the typical names are Xiaomi phone company, social networking company Tencent Holdings and Gree Electric Applicances, a home appliance manufacturer. The most successful so far is Huawei with the Kirin chip used on its phones.
Alibaba's new processor, XuanTie 910, was developed on the free, open source RISC-V script architecture. Many other Chinese companies are also seeking to create chip designs based on RISC-V. Because it has some advantages on smartwatch and other internet-connected devices.
Another important factor is that this architecture is not within the scope of the US government ban.
The RISC-V Foundation, which oversees the development of this architecture, also contributes as a member of companies like Huawei and Huami (Xiaomi's subsidiary).
This shows their ambition to build processors like Alibaba.
Reference from Nikkei Asian Review
Mr. Nerd
