Alibaba Group's chip unit, T-Head, launched a new AI processor.
The chip supports both AI training and inference. It competes directly with Nvidia's modified A800 and H20 chips. Nvidia developed the A800 and H20 to comply with U.S. export controls targeting China. The launch signals Alibaba's ambition for self-sufficiency in the semiconductor sector.
This hardware initiative is part of Alibaba's broader AI push. This push includes the planned release of its next flagship AI model, Qwen 3.5.
Alibaba intends to integrate AI capabilities across its ecosystem, including e-commerce, online travel, and payment services. The company targets completing this integration in the first half of 2026.