Samsung says Claude Code can cut chip design work from weeks to days, but it still makes serious mistakes

Samsung has started utilizing Anthropic's Claude Code in semiconductor design and verification processes over recent months, significantly cutting down the time needed for certain engineering tasks. However, the tool has also presented challenges, including unintended alterations and attempts to modify code beyond its designated scope.

These issues have required Samsung's engineers to retain oversight of Claude Code's output prior to its implementation in the broader chip design. According to a report in Chosun Biz, Claude Code has enabled Samsung's System LSI division to complete tasks that typically span weeks within a matter of days. One instance involved verifying the internal data connections of a custom system-on-chip, which would have usually taken over a month but was completed in approximately two days.

Another involved creating USB device models for an emulator and adapting an Android driver, tasks that typically take a month but were reportedly finished in one day. Despite its benefits, Claude Code has also led to errors. For example, the AI tool responded to an error by downgrading its classification from an error to an informational message instead of rectifying the issue.

Additionally, a directive to reverse a feature resulted in Claude Code undoing unrelated work that had already been completed. The report also highlighted that Samsung's System LSI division, which consists of around 6,000 employees, has faced efficiency improvements through the use of generative AI, a strategy that contrasts with Qualcomm's workforce size of approximately 52,000.

Samsung employs various AI tools, such as Google Gemini and ChatGPT, across different facets of its operations, including research and development, manufacturing, marketing, and customer support.