Share Reaction
Zhipu AI (Knowledge Atlas Tech Joint Stock, HK:2513) shares jumped 9.9% in Hong Kong trading on Tuesday, outperforming the Hang Seng’s 2% gain, after The Information reported that the company is exploring a custom application‑specific integrated circuit (ASIC) to power its GLM family of large language models.
ASIC Development Initiative
The firm has entered preliminary discussions with several domestic chip design companies to develop an ASIC tailored for its GLM‑5.2 model. No partner has been selected yet, and the project is described as being in an early stage with an expected development timeline of more than two years.
Demand for GLM‑5.2
Daily token usage of the GLM‑5.2 model increased 27‑fold during the first week after its launch last month, creating heightened pressure on computing resources.
Context of Export Restrictions
The move comes as U.S. export controls continue to limit Chinese companies’ access to Nvidia’s most advanced AI chips, prompting Zhipu to seek a domestic silicon solution.
Potential Benefits
A proprietary ASIC could lower operating costs and improve energy efficiency when deployed at scale, reducing Zhipu’s dependence on third‑party suppliers.
Industry Landscape
If pursued, Zhipu would join other technology firms such as Google, OpenAI, Alibaba and ByteDance that are developing in‑house AI processors to enhance performance and lessen reliance on external chip vendors.
Next Milestone
Selection of a chip design partner would indicate progression beyond the exploratory phase.