深圳理工大学唐志敏：异构计算已成必然，软件决定芯片胜负丨GAIR 2025

Core Viewpoint - RISC-V has the potential to integrate the characteristics of CPU, GPU, and AI processors, breaking through the ecological barriers of CUDA [47] Group 1: AI and Computing Power - The eighth GAIR Global AI and Robotics Conference will be held in Shenzhen, focusing on the core of intelligent systems—computing power [2] - Computing power is not just a reflection of hardware performance but a capability system to complete tasks under resource and time constraints [3] - The rapid growth of generative AI's demand for computing power necessitates heterogeneous computing (CPU + XPU) as CPUs alone cannot meet real-world needs [11][16] Group 2: Software and Ecosystem - The true determinant of computing power release is the software and application ecosystem, rather than the hardware itself [20] - The ecosystem includes all software that runs on processors, and the productivity is generated by application software, not the chips [24] - The x86 ecosystem has a significant market share and inertia, making it challenging for new architectures to compete [26] Group 3: RISC-V and Market Challenges - RISC-V's openness presents new possibilities, but openness does not guarantee success; many open CPUs have failed commercially [27][28] - RISC-V faces commercialization difficulties, particularly in complex computing fields, due to an immature software ecosystem [29] - The need for a robust software ecosystem is critical for RISC-V to succeed in the competitive landscape [20][29] Group 4: Future Directions - The future of computing architecture may return to a CPU-centric model, with RISC-V having the potential to unify CPU, GPU, and AI processor characteristics [47] - The importance of building a domestic computing ecosystem is recognized at the national level to avoid dependency on foreign technologies [33] - Successful chip development hinges on the ability to create a comprehensive software ecosystem that adds significant value to products and services [34][45]