Nvidia prepping new flagship AI chip variant for China, sources report

Nvidia Adapting New AI Chips for China Under U.S. Export Controls

Nvidia, the renowned AI chip manufacturer, is reportedly developing a specialized version of its latest cutting-edge AI chips to comply with existing U.S. export regulations for China. This comes as sources reveal that the company aims to introduce these new chips, dubbed "Blackwell" series, which were first announced in March and are set for mass production later this year.

Introducing the B200

Within the Blackwell series, the B200 chip stands out for its remarkable performance, boasting speeds that are 30 times faster than its predecessor in specific tasks such as chatbot responses. However, to align with U.S. export controls, Nvidia is collaborating with Inspur, a key distributor in China, to roll out a modified version of this chip. This version is provisionally named the "B20," though official confirmation from Nvidia is still pending.

Company Responses

While sources have shared these insights, Nvidia has yet to publicly comment on the matter. Additionally, despite requests, Inspur has not provided any remarks regarding this development.

Context of Export Controls

U.S. authorities tightened their grip on semiconductor exports to China in 2023. This move aims to curtail advancements in supercomputing technologies that could potentially benefit the Chinese military. In response to these regulations, Nvidia has already tailored three chips specifically for the Chinese market, demonstrating its adaptability in navigating geopolitical constraints.

Conclusion

As Nvidia continues to strategize its entry into the Chinese market amidst stringent export controls, the tech community awaits further announcements regarding the B20 chip. The company's ability to innovate within regulatory boundaries could significantly influence the global AI chip landscape.