China’s Hygon moves beyond data centres with embedded processors for robotics, edge AI

Chinese chipmaker Hygon Information Technology has introduced a new line of central processing units (CPUs) designed for robotics and industrial edge devices, marking a shift from their focus on cloud computing. The company unveiled the Hygon 1000 series processors, which are intended for embedding into physical devices within industrial automation systems, including robotics and factory controllers.

These chips, built on Hygon's x86-compatible C86 architecture, come in four-core, eight-thread configurations and support both DDR4 and DDR5 memory. They have integrated graphics capabilities, making them the company's smallest chips yet. Hygon's CEO, Sha Chaoqun, emphasized during the launch in Shenzhen that AI computing is increasingly moving from data centers to physical environments, such as factories and power stations.

Hygon's CEO highlighted the growing demand for edge AI in sectors like manufacturing and transportation. The new processors address the specific needs of robotics and edge applications, which require real-time processing, low power consumption, and robust security. Huang Wei, Hygon's general manager of the Innovative Product Department, noted the market's rapid growth for edge AI.

The company plans to release an updated version of the 1000 series in 2027, promising a doubling of computing performance. As a Shanghai-listed company, Hygon is crucial to Beijing's efforts to achieve semiconductor self-sufficiency amidst US restrictions on advanced chip access. The company's existing CPU lines include the 7000 series for data centers, the 5000 series for industry cloud and edge computing, and the 3000 series for cost-conscious applications.

Hygon is one of China's primary developers of x86-compatible CPUs, contributing significantly to the global server, desktop, and laptop market. The first-half revenue for Hygon surged 66.5% to 9.1 billion yuan (approximately US$1.4 billion) compared to the previous year, fueled by robust demand for high-end domestic chips.