(Bloomberg) — ByteDance and Broadcom have mentioned a possible collaboration on an AI processor to assist bolster the TikTok mum or dad’s improvement of that know-how.
The US chip designer and Beijing-based ByteDance have talked a couple of 5-nanometer purpose-built chip, based on an individual acquainted with 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 information facilities, the particular person mentioned, asking to not be named as the data is personal.
The proposed chip would adjust to US 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 advised 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.
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Ought to the pair attain a deal, the personalized chip can be made by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Firm, Reuters reported. The tie-up between the proprietor of TikTok and two international semiconductor companies is uncommon given Washington is actively making an attempt to curtail Chinese language chipmaking ambitions by way of a sequence of broad manufacturing and export curbs.
The association is meant to make sure a gradual provide of chips to ByteDance, which operates the world’s largest quick video platform in addition to Chinese language companies Douyin and Toutiao. ByteDance’s Doubao turned China’s hottest AI chatbot this 12 months.
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 making an attempt to maintain tempo with these US rivals, having made AI a precedence this 12 months.
Representatives for ByteDance, Broadcom and TSMC didn’t reply to requests for remark.
