ByteDance Ltd. and Broadcom Inc. have mentioned a possible collaboration on an AI processor to assist bolster the TikTok mum or dad’s improvement of that know-how.
The U.S. chip designer and Beijing-based ByteDance have talked a few 5-nanometer purpose-built chip, in response to an individual conversant in the discussions. No deal has but been reached between the 2 firms, and Broadcom already provides an older-generation 7nm AI processor to be used in ByteDance’s knowledge facilities, the particular person mentioned, asking to not be named as the knowledge is personal.
The proposed chip would adjust to U.S. commerce restrictions on China, Reuters mentioned in an earlier report citing nameless sources. The 2 firms’ present enterprise relationship largely revolves round server and networking gear, and Broadcom has cited ByteDance as a buyer in its press releases.
In March, Broadcom informed buyers that it added a brand new buyer for its client AI accelerator enterprise and it is going to be delivery merchandise to that firm within the subsequent few months, with out offering a reputation.
Ought to the pair attain a deal, the custom-made chip can be made by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Reuters reported. The tie-up between the proprietor of TikTok and two international semiconductor corporations is uncommon given Washington is actively attempting to curtail Chinese language chipmaking ambitions by way of a collection of broad manufacturing and export curbs.
The association is meant to make sure a gentle provide of chips to ByteDance, which operates the world’s greatest brief video platform in addition to Chinese language companies Douyin and Toutiao. ByteDance’s Doubao turned China’s hottest AI chatbot this yr.
ByteDance’s international rivals, from Meta Platforms Inc. and Microsoft Corp. to Alphabet Inc.’s Google, are all creating or already utilizing their very own bespoke chips for AI duties. The TikTok mum or dad shall be attempting to maintain tempo with these U.S. rivals, having made AI a precedence this yr.
Representatives for ByteDance, Broadcom and TSMC didn’t reply to requests for remark.
