SK Telecom has introduced a self-developed artificial intelligence (AI) chip designed for deep learning computation speeds of 6.7 kiloframes per second, about 1.5 times faster than that of graphics processing units.
Called Sapeon X220, the AI chip processes large amounts of data in parallel while at the same time it uses 20% less power than a GPU, consuming 60 W of energy at about half the price, SK said.
With the introduction of its chip, SK has set its sights on competing with the likes of Nvidia, which has been developing GPUs for AI and machine learning for years now.
SK said it plans to apply the Sapeon X220 to its AI service called Nugu to improve voice recognition capability. Additionally, the chip will be used by SK’s affiliate companies such as ADT Caps, which will use the AI chip to enhance its video monitoring service called T-View.
The plan is to combine its AI semiconductor chips and 5G edge cloud to provide data centers with AI as a service business (AIaaS). The combination of AI chips and AI software will allow for features such as content recommendation, voice recognition, video recognition and media upscaling.
