Broadcom and ByteDance Co-Develop 5nm AI Chip to Bypass Export Controls
Broadcom and ByteDance are reportedly designing a 5nm AI processor that complies with U.S. export rules to secure a steady supply of high-end chips for ByteDance's algorithms. TSMC manufactures the chip, though production does not start this year.
Broadcom and ByteDance are reportedly collaborating on a new 5nm Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) designed to power ByteDance's AI algorithms. This partnership provides ByteDance with a reliable supply of high-end chips while fully complying with U.S. export control regulations. TSMC handles the manufacturing of this advanced processor.
While the two companies already begin the design process, they have not yet reached the tape-out stage, meaning manufacturing does not start this year. This collaboration marks the first public indication of a 5nm chip development project between American and Chinese companies since Washington introduces strict export controls in 2022.
Securing dedicated AI chips is critical for ByteDance as it supports popular services like TikTok and the ChatGPT-like chatbot Doubao. The company previously stockpiles billions of dollars worth of NVIDIA chips, but this new custom ASIC helps reduce procurement costs and ensures long-term stability amid ongoing U.S. tech sanctions.