NVIDIA is preparing to release an AI-focused processor named B20 that trims down certain capabilities to comply with US requirements. Meanwhile, AMD will introduce its Radeon AI PRO R9700, aimed specifically at handling demanding AI tasks for workstation users in China.
AI Chip Rollouts Amid Tightened US Controls
Reports suggest that both companies plan to begin shipments as early as July. This move comes as restrictions have sharply limited what kinds of high performance chips can be exported to China.
NVIDIA is also developing a lower cost option for China, building on its Blackwell architecture, that may retail for between sixty five hundred and eight thousand dollars. The price point would be notably below the ten thousand to twelve thousand dollars charged for its more advanced H20 processors.
Licensing requirements have already taken a significant toll on NVIDIA’s finances this year. The firm absorbed a four and a half billion dollar charge during the last quarter because regulations affected delivery of its H20 product line in China.
NVIDIA also reported that it was unable to ship two and a half billion dollars’ worth of H20 units during the period in question. Looking forward, the company now anticipates that the trade restrictions and associated licensing issues could lower its second quarter revenue by another eight billion dollars.
For more information, see specialized graphics processors for artificial intelligence in China.
