Chinese AI Firms Seek Domestic Alternatives to Nvidia
Amidst the US plans to restrict the export of AI chips to China, Chinese AI chip firm Biren Intelligent Technology Co. has secured a $280 million investment pledge from Guangzhou government-backed investors. This comes as China ramps up efforts to challenge Nvidia, the world’s largest chipmaker. Biren is also seeking additional funding from the Hong Kong government, while another Chinese AI chip startup, Moore Threads, recently raised millions of yuan in a series-B round.
Relief for Chinese AI Firms
These developments provide relief for Chinese firms like Baidu and Tencent Holdings, who have been focusing on AI developments. Despite the chip restrictions, these companies have enough Nvidia chips in stock to continue their operations. Baidu has even claimed that its latest AI model can compete with OpenAI’s GPT-4, while Alibaba has introduced its own AI model with advanced capabilities.
US Concerns About National Security
In October, the US Commerce Department imposed AI chip restrictions on China due to concerns about the country’s military advancement using the technology. The US fears that advanced chips in Chinese hands could pose a threat to national security.
Hot Take: Chinese AI Firms Adapt and Secure Funding Amidst US Restrictions
Despite facing restrictions on AI chip exports from the US, Chinese AI firms are finding alternatives and building resilience against crackdowns. Biren Intelligent Technology Co. has secured a significant investment pledge of $280 million from government-backed investors, while other startups like Moore Threads are also raising funds. This provides relief for major Chinese firms like Baidu and Tencent Holdings who can continue their AI developments using their existing stock of Nvidia chips. However, concerns about national security remain as the US restricts the export of AI chips to China.
By
By
By
By
