And there’s also TSMC’s view of chinese dancing robots, and Alibaba’s research arm, Damo Academy, launching a Risc-V based CPU for AI inference…
As usual, let’s take them in reverse order as according to Google Analytics:
5. Power Integrations extend TOPSwitch IC range with PowiGaN tech
APEC 2026: Power Integrations has implemented its GaN technology in its TOPSwitch flyback ICs to increase the power range to 400W. The company’s PowiGaN technology means that the flyback converters more than double power output to extend the power range above the conventional 250W to 440W for faster charging for e-bikes, mobility devices and industrial applications.
4. Foundry revenues to grow 24.8%
Global foundry revenue is projected to grow 24.8% y-o-y to approximately $218.8bn, with TSMC expected to post the largest increase of around 32% y-o-y, says TrendForce. Global foundry revenue is projected to grow 24.8% y-o-y to approximately $218.8bn, with TSMC expected to post the largest increase of around 32% y-o-y, says TrendForce. Demand for advanced nodes will continue to be driven by AI GPUs.
3. Arm takes on Intel with proprietary server CPU
Arm has designed its first production silicon proprietary CPU which sits, in the integration hierarchy, between Arm’s IP portfolio and its Compute Subsystems (CSS) products. The processor, designated Arm AGI CPU, is targeted at agentic AI infrastructure. Arm says it delivers more than 2x performance per rack compared with x86 platforms. “Today marks the next phase of the Arm compute platform and a defining moment for our company,” says CEO Rene Haas
2. China’s dancing robots “useless”
China’s dancing, jumping, performing humanoid robots are fun but useless, said TSMC CEO C C Wei (pictured) when accepting a doctorate from Asia University at the weekend. “It’s useless — just for show,” commented Wei pointing out that, to be useful, robots needed brains and 95% of all humanoid robots’ brains are made by TSMC. He added that he hopes the transistors in humanoid robots’ brains continue to be made by TSMC, because the “reliability of robots cannot be compromised”.
1. Alibaba launches 5nm Risc-V CPU for inference
Alibaba’s research arm, Damo Academy, has launched a Risc-V based CPU for AI inference, which can be customised to a user’s workload and is claimed to be the highest-performing Risc-V processor in the world. Called the XuanTie C950, it is a 5nm, 3.2GHz processor aimed at competing in the worldwide AI chip market. Alibaba CEO Eddie Wu says he is aiming the company to be a full-stack AI technology provider.
