Episode 43: The Custom Silicon Trend Continues

The Circuit · 20 Nov 2023 · 38m · Episode 45

What this episode covers

Ben Bajarin and Jay Goldberg discuss Microsoft's launch of its custom Cobalt ARM processor and Maya AI accelerator, noting the strategic shift toward vertical integration and software-defined silicon diversity in the data center. They analyze MediaTek's entry into the custom silicon market, highlighting their unique value proposition of leveraging TSMC's leading-edge processes and advanced packaging to help companies like Microsoft design chips they cannot access directly. The hosts debate the timing of Microsoft's Maya chip relative to the rise of LLMs and the potential for tighter hardware-software co-design now that OpenAI talent is joining Microsoft.

Mentioned

Companies
Microsoft, MediaTek, Ampere, OpenAI, TSMC, Broadcom, Alchip, Global Unichip, Qualcomm, AMD, Intel, AWS, Amazon, Google, NVIDIA, Meta, BYD, Cisco, TI, Nokia, LSI, Samsung, Xiaomi, Apple
Products
Cobalt, Maya
Also
Sam Altman

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