Samsung trails SK Hynix in producing high-bandwidth memory (HBM), crucial for AI chips used by Nvidia. This has impacted Samsung's profits and market value. SK Hynix secured Nvidia's approval for its HBM, while Samsung awaits approval. Samsung claims its HBM3E is in production and aims to mass-produce next-gen HBM4 in late 2025.
An AI robotics startup has raised $400 million, valuing it at $2.8 billion. The company's foundation model, π0, powers robots to follow text instructions and output motor commands. They've published research on enhancing flexible, general-purpose robotic systems.
Taiwan's semiconductor production is projected to grow 22% to NT$5.3 trillion in 2024, driven by demand for advanced chips in AI servers. This follows a 10.2% decline in 2023 due to weak computer and smartphone demand.
AI is rapidly advancing in simulating physics and chemistry problems, potentially rivalling quantum computers. Neural networks can now model systems of up to 100,000 atoms, making previously difficult problems in chemistry and materials science feasible. This progress is driven by improved techniques and vast datasets. While quantum computers may still have advantages for certain problems, AI could reach important milestones in chemistry and materials science simulation sooner.
Apple is exploring AI server production using its own Silicon processors, partnering with Foxconn and Lenovo for manufacturing in Taiwan. The company aims to support its AI services in data centres, focusing on inference rather than training large language models. Apple is seeking supplier support for engineering and design due to limited experience in data centre server design.
Nvidia has become the world's most valuable company, surpassing Apple. The AI chipmaker's shares reached a record high, nearly tripling since the start of the year due to high demand for its AI chips. However, trading volumes have remained low, possibly due to uncertainties surrounding the US election and chip export restrictions.
SK Hynix is fast-tracking development of its next-gen AI memory chips (HBM4), aiming to ship six months earlier than planned in late 2025. This acceleration responds to high demand from Nvidia, which still can't meet current AI chip demand.
A Chinese autonomous driving company has raised $100 million and aims to have its system in 200,000 cars by 2025, up from 20,000 now. The system is comparable to Tesla's and could enable affordable smart EVs in China. The company's mapless approach gives it a cost advantage.
Hyundai has unveiled a hydrogen-powered concept SUV called the Initium, set to debut at auto shows in November. Production is planned for next year. The vehicle has a 404-mile range on hydrogen and includes a backup electric system. Hyundai is investing £4 billion in hydrogen technology as part of its carbon neutrality goal. Market availability is yet to be confirmed.
