Chinese artificial intelligence companies have formed two new alliances aimed at creating a robust domestic AI ecosystem, reducing reliance on foreign technology in response to U.S. restrictions on advanced Nvidia chip imports. The announcements coincided with the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) held in Shanghai, where numerous new AI products, including Huawei’s competitive AI computing system, were also unveiled.
The “Model-Chip Ecosystem Innovation Alliance” connects Chinese developers of large language models (LLMs) and AI chip manufacturers like Huawei, Biren, and Moore Threads, firms impacted by U.S. sanctions. This alliance seeks to integrate the entire technology chain from AI chips to models and infrastructure, boosting China’s self-sufficiency in AI technology.
A second alliance led by the Shanghai General Chamber of Commerce AI Committee focuses on deeply integrating AI into industrial transformation. Participants include AI companies like SenseTime, StepFun, MiniMax, and chipmakers Metax and Iluvatar CoreX. These groups are shifting toward LLMs and innovative chip technologies to bypass U.S. sanctions and drive China’s AI advancement.
At the conference, Huawei showcased its Cloud Matrix 384 system with 384 latest 910C chips, reportedly outperforming Nvidia’s competing models in some areas. Other Chinese firms also displayed advanced “clustering” chip tech, while major players like Tencent, Baidu, and Alibaba introduced AI innovations ranging from 3D world models and digital humans to AI-powered glasses, signaling China’s push to lead in AI innovation despite external pressures.
Source: Reuters