Key Takeaways
• Huawei is developing the Ascend 910D AI chip to rival Nvidia’s leading AI processors.
• First batches of the chip are expected for testing by late May 2025.
• U.S. export controls have accelerated China’s push for semiconductor independence.
• Huawei plans mass shipments of its existing Ascend 910C chip to domestic customers.
Huawei Technologies is expanding its efforts in artificial intelligence (AI) hardware development with its newest processor, the Ascend 910D.
Positioned to compete with Nvidia’s top-tier offerings, this project underscores China’s broader strategic goal of achieving self-sufficiency in critical technology sectors amid intensifying U.S. export restrictions.
The Ascend 910D: Huawei’s Latest Innovation
Huawei has initiated early-stage development and testing of the Ascend 910D, a new AI chip aimed at high-end AI model training, a space currently dominated by U.S.-based Nvidia.
According to sources familiar with the matter, Huawei is collaborating with Chinese technology companies to assess the chip’s feasibility.
The company expects the first samples of the Ascend 910D to be ready for testing by late May 2025.
• Ascend 910D is designed to rival Nvidia’s H100 in performance.
• Early batches will undergo rigorous testing to validate capabilities.
• Initial customer deployment will follow successful evaluations.
This model builds on Huawei’s previous Ascend 910B and 910C processors but represents an ambitious leap aimed directly at closing the gap with global leaders in AI hardware.
Impact of U.S. Technology Restrictions
The development of the Ascend 910D is a direct response to U.S. policies that limit China’s access to cutting-edge semiconductors. Since 2022, Washington has banned the export of Nvidia’s advanced AI chips, such as the H100 and B200, to Chinese firms, citing national security concerns.
Despite these challenges, Huawei has demonstrated notable resilience. In 2023, it surprised global observers by launching the Mate 60 smartphone, powered by a domestically produced processor, during a visit by U.S. officials to Beijing.
This event highlighted Huawei’s ability to innovate under pressure and reinforced China’s commitment to cultivating a self-reliant semiconductor industry.
Preparing Mass Production: Ascend 910C
While the Ascend 910D is still undergoing testing, Huawei is preparing for mass production of the Ascend 910C chip, an earlier model that also supports AI applications. Reports indicate that mass shipments of the 910C could begin as early as next month.
• Ascend 910C mass production is scheduled imminently.
• Huawei targets the Chinese market, bypassing international restrictions.
• The company continues to build momentum in AI chip development.
This approach ensures Huawei can meet immediate domestic demand while the next generation of AI processors matures.
Broader Strategic Implications
Huawei’s accelerated chip development plays a crucial role in China’s broader tech strategy. Successful deployment of the Ascend 910D would not only offer a domestic alternative to Nvidia but also shift the competitive dynamics of the AI hardware sector.
At a time when AI capabilities are becoming increasingly vital across industries, Huawei’s investments reinforce its strategic positioning in both national and international contexts.
Neither Huawei nor Nvidia has officially commented on the Ascend 910D’s expected performance metrics or commercial rollout timelines.
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