Alibaba is developing a new AI chip to enhance its capabilities in AI inference tasks. This chip aims to address the increasing demand for AI technology in China. Unlike previous Alibaba chips designed for specific applications, this new chip is intended for a broader range of AI workloads.
The chip will be manufactured by a Chinese company, marking a shift from previous AI processors made by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing. This move aligns with China's strategy to bolster its domestic technology industry. The new chip is designed to be compatible with Nvidia's platform, allowing engineers to repurpose existing programs.
Alibaba's CEO, Eddie Wu, has identified 'AI plus cloud' as a key driver of growth for the company, alongside e-commerce. This development signifies China's commitment to becoming a leader in the AI sector, with domestic companies creating advanced technologies.