China’s tech giant Huawei has quietly launched a new AI chip that experts say could rival Nvidia’s dominance. The Ascend 910B processor marks a major leap in China’s computing power.
This move comes amid ongoing tech tensions between the US and China. American trade restrictions have limited Huawei’s access to advanced chip technology for years.
Huawei’s chip operates at speeds comparable to Nvidia’s H100 model, according to industry insiders. The H100 currently powers many AI systems worldwide, including ChatGPT.
“This represents a significant milestone in China’s push for tech self-reliance,” says Dr. Min Zhang, technology researcher at Beijing University. “The Ascend series shows Huawei’s determination to overcome export controls.”
The chip uses an advanced 7-nanometer process developed by SMIC, China’s largest chipmaker. This achievement is remarkable considering China’s limited access to foreign semiconductor equipment.
Western observers remain skeptical about Huawei’s claims. Some question whether the chip can match Nvidia’s software ecosystem, which many developers prefer.
“Hardware is only half the battle,” notes Sarah Johnson, AI analyst at Tech Futures. “Nvidia’s CUDA platform gives them a massive advantage that Huawei will struggle to overcome.”
The global AI chip market has exploded as companies race to build powerful systems. Nvidia currently controls over 80% of this market, with its stock value tripling in the past year.
China’s government has invested billions into semiconductor research. The country aims to reduce its reliance on foreign technology amid growing geopolitical tensions.
Huawei plans to use the chip in its cloud services first. This approach mimics how US companies typically deploy new AI hardware before wider release.
The company has faced serious challenges since 2019. US sanctions have damaged its smartphone business and limited its access to critical technologies.
“This chip represents Huawei’s resilience,” explains tech industry veteran Li Wei. “They’ve turned limitations into motivation for innovation.”
Several Chinese tech firms have already ordered the new chips. Baidu and Alibaba are reportedly testing the processors for their AI applications.
Industry experts believe the chip will primarily serve China’s domestic market. Export restrictions will likely prevent Huawei from selling it internationally.
The development raises questions about the effectiveness of US trade restrictions. Some analysts argue the sanctions have accelerated China’s push for tech independence.
“We’re seeing the law of unintended consequences,” says Mark Stevenson, global trade expert. “Sanctions meant to slow China’s progress may have had the opposite effect.”
Nvidia still maintains significant advantages in AI computing. Its upcoming Blackwell architecture promises even greater performance gains over current offerings.
The AI chip race reflects a broader competition for tech leadership. Both nations view artificial intelligence as critical to future economic and military power.
For everyday users, this competition could mean more affordable AI services. More chip suppliers typically lead to price drops and technology improvements.
Whether Huawei can truly challenge Nvidia remains to be seen. But the company’s progress signals China won’t easily surrender in the global tech race.
