Axera Shares Its “Minimalist Approach” in Developing AI Processors at IC China 2024

IC China 2024

The 21st China International Semiconductor Expo (IC China 2024) took place in Beijing from November 18 to 20, 2024. The Expo, which showcased the latest trends and technological innovations in the semiconductor industry, was themed “Pooling Industry Resources for Large-scale Industrial Integration.” At the Expo’s “AI and Large Model Chip Forum,” Axera’s Co-founder and Vice President Jianwei Liu shared his insights on developments in the large model chip industry and presented the AXNeutron AI processor, a chip designed specifically for next-generation intelligent applications. At the invitation of the Shanghai Integrated Circuit Industry Association, Axera also exhibited its portfolio of AI chips for edge and terminal applications at the Expo.

Boosting Cost Efficiency: AI as New Infrastructure for Productivity Revolution

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence has transformed how humans and machines interact. Speaking at the forum, Liu emphasized how modern AI, powered by new computing paradigms, has revolutionized the use of computing resources. With the widespread adoption of large language models, users can now effortlessly generate various forms of content using simple text, audio, or image inputs. This capability has not only enhanced productivity and quality of life but also achieved significant cost reductions. “Artificial intelligence has evolved into an intelligent infrastructure driving social development,” Liu remarked.

As AI inference and training tasks become increasingly specialized, GPUs can effectively separate intensive computing tasks from CPUs. However, since GPUs weren’t originally designed for AI applications, they come with high investment costs. To maximize chip efficiency, the industry needs more economical, efficient, and environmentally friendly AI processors. Based on this market assessment, Axera developed the AXNeutron AI processor.

Born for AI: The Minimalist Approach in Developing AXNeutron

Launched in July 2024, the AXNeutron AI processor is built around operator instruction sets and dataflow microarchitecture. The processor’s core design utilizes programmable dataflow microarchitecture to enhance energy efficiency and computing power density. Its flexible architecture ensures comprehensive support for operator instruction sets across various AI applications, while its robust software toolchain facilitates swift developer adoption.

When it comes to hardware-software co-design, the AXNeutron AI processor embraces a minimalist philosophy. According to Liu, maximizing AI processor efficiency requires carefully analyzing and addressing core business needs rather than adding unnecessary features. This approach enables rapid iterations and helps maintain AXNeutron’s competitive edge in the market.

AI for All: AXNeutron Powers AIoT & Smart Driving with Full-spectrum Computing Solutions

Delivering strong computing performance at competitive prices, AXNeutron products have carved out a solid presence in AIoT and smart driving sectors. With solutions ranging from high, medium, to low computing power, the company helps businesses across the spectrum find the right AI chips that suit their business growth.

According to Liu, AXNeutron has established itself as a global leader in AIoT processor shipments. The company’s M76H automotive chip series excels at handling multiple BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) tasks in smart driving applications. In smart city deployments, the AX650 series demonstrates superior scene recognition capabilities. These solutions enable businesses to streamline complex AI operations—text-to-image search and generation, and AI agents—making advanced AI capabilities accessible to all.

As large language models become increasingly embedded across industries, the demand for computing power in both production and daily life continues to surge. Economical, environmental-friendly, and efficient AI processors are emerging as the cornerstone for the intelligent transformation. Building on its technological prowess, Axera remains committed to its vision of “AI for All, AI for a Better World,” helping catalyze the transition to an “Intelligence of Everything” future.