Kneron Inc., a San Diego-based startup specializing in artificial intelligence (AI) chips for connected devices, has announced a significant boost to its funding with an additional $49 million. This funding round extends the Series B funding that the company initiated last year, demonstrating strong investor confidence in its AI chip technology. Among the notable participants in this funding extension is Foxconn, the world’s largest contract electronics manufacturer, renowned semiconductor maker Liteon Technology Corp., and several other investors.
Kneron’s AI Chip Technology
Kneron specializes in the development of AI chips tailored for smart cars, robots, and various connected devices. These chips are optimized for inference tasks, which involve running trained AI models on real-time data. What sets Kneron’s technology apart is its ability to continue functioning seamlessly even when internet connectivity is lost. This resilience is crucial for AI applications in scenarios where constant connectivity cannot be guaranteed.
The KL730 AI Chip
Recently, Kneron introduced its latest AI chip, the KL730. This chip combines a four-core central processing unit (CPU) based on Arm Holdings Plc. designs with an accelerator optimized for inference workloads. The KL730 can be seamlessly integrated into devices via SD, USB, or Ethernet links. Impressively, it can perform up to 4 trillion data operations per second while maintaining three to four times higher power efficiency compared to earlier chips. Kneron positions the KL730 as a cost-effective alternative to graphics cards, which are traditionally used for AI model execution.
Customer Base
Kneron has built a substantial customer base, generating “double-digit millions” in revenue from its AI chips. Notable customers include electronics giant Garmin Ltd. and Naver Corp., operator of South Korea’s leading search engine. With the newly secured capital, Kneron aims to expand its customer base, particularly focusing on the automotive sector. The company recently acquired Otus, an auto parts supplier specializing in cameras and software for smart vehicle driver assistance systems.
Collaboration with Foxconn
To accelerate its presence in the automotive sector, Kneron is partnering with Foxconn. Together, they will develop an “ultra-lightweight AI chip” designed specifically for vehicles. This chip will have the capability to run large language models based on the GPT architecture, which is the foundation of advanced AI systems such as OpenAI LP’s GPT-4.
Future Growth and Research & Development
Kneron’s newly acquired capital will also support its expansion efforts, including hiring more personnel, particularly in its research and development department. This strategic move underscores Kneron’s commitment to continuous innovation and maintaining its position at the forefront of AI chip development.
In summary, Kneron Inc.’s recent funding extension highlights its growing prominence in the AI chip industry. With a focus on resilience, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, Kneron is poised to further shape the future of AI in connected devices, particularly within the automotive sector, with the support of strategic collaborations and a commitment to ongoing research and development.