MediaTek Plans to Introduce Its Own AI Server Chips, Featuring ARM Architecture & TSMC 3nm Process

The news that MediaTek is about to kick off its AI server chip reminiscent of ARM architecture features and robust capabilities, only designed on TSMC's 3nm process node. The company…

By Ishika Setia

July 15, 2024

3 min read

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The news that MediaTek is about to kick off its AI server chip reminiscent of ARM architecture features and robust capabilities, only designed on TSMC’s 3nm process node. The company has been very keen on capturing a large share of the AI market.

MediaTek in collaboration with NVIDIA was earlier rumored to be developing a chip for the “AI PC” segment to challenge the Snapdragon X Elite series. So MediaTek is going after some of the professional side end of AI. According to a new report, this includes creating their own AI server chips working with both TSMC and ARM to make the high-performance product.

MediaTek to Setup AI Server Chips

Taiwan Economic Daily notes that MediaTek is readying its AI server chip series, which could be based on ARM architecture. That would place MediaTek among the first companies to gather ARM-based AI server chips together. On top of that, MediaTek looks to build on the usage of TSMC with a 3nm process for some very competent chips. So then, how will they take on their direct competition from NVIDIA?

The AI server chip of MediaTek is focused on the mid-low performance formation and carries out the design without being keen to enter into the high-end market. Many companies, including startups, are now entering the race to AI not requiring top-tier solutions offered by companies like NVIDIA, and so it is where this sector has a growing demand. Cloud service providers (CSPs) like Microsoft, Google, and Meta are likely to show keen interest in MediaTek’s low-power architecture.

Regarding the production schedule, MediaTek’s chip is expected to reach the “tape out” stage by the first half of 2025, with small volume shipments starting in the second half of 2024. If there is enough interest and in case the market demands, mass production could start as soon as 2026. Although there has not yet been any product focusing on only AI, the progress of MediaTek implies this will probably happen in a few years and it might be an additional competitor that cannot merely vanish.

FAQs

When is MediaTek expected to start shipping its AI server chips?

MediaTek is expected to start small-volume shipments of its AI server chips in the second half of 2024, with mass production anticipated by 2026.

What segment of the market will MediaTek’s AI server chips target?

MediaTek’s AI server chips will focus on the mid-to-low performance tier, catering to the growing demand from startups and cloud service providers who do not require high-end solutions.