NVIDIA is reportedly working on a modified version of its flagship Blackwell AI GPUs specifically for the Chinese market. This new AI GPU, dubbed the B20 AI GPU, will adhere to strict US export controls. Earlier this year, NVIDIA unveiled its powerful Blackwell B100, B200, and GB200 AI chips. Notably, the B200 chip is significantly faster than the Hopper H100 in some AI tasks, but its advanced capabilities make it unsuitable for export to China. However, NVIDIA is reportedly developing a less powerful B20 AI GPU to meet the US export regulations, with a planned release in Q2 2025. This news comes from a Reuters report, citing sources who declined to be identified as NVIDIA has not yet publicly commented on the matter. An NVIDIA spokesperson also declined to comment. NVIDIA has previously adapted its AI GPUs to comply with US export controls into China, creating modified versions like the H20, L20, and L2 AI chips. The new Blackwell GPU architecture represents a significant step forward for NVIDIA in AI dominance, and with the B20 AI GPU, China will have access to a modified version of this powerful technology. The tightening of US export regulations has pushed Chinese technology companies like Huawei and startups such as Tencent-based Enflame to develop their own advanced AI processors. According to Reuters, NVIDIA’s B20 AI GPU for the Chinese market will help the company counter these challenges and maintain its position in the market. China was a significant market for NVIDIA two years ago, accounting for approximately 26% of its revenue. However, following US sanctions, revenue from China dropped to about 17% by the end of January. While NVIDIA’s modified H20 AI GPU for China did not initially see large sales figures, Reuters sources report that sales are now rapidly increasing. Research firm SemiAnalysis estimates that NVIDIA will sell over 1 million H20 AI GPUs to China this year, generating approximately $12 billion in revenue. NVIDIA is clearly reluctant to relinquish billions of dollars in annual revenue from the Chinese market, and the company is also keen on preventing domestic companies from gaining traction in its territory. This move to develop a specialized B20 AI GPU for China demonstrates NVIDIA’s commitment to navigating the complex landscape of US export controls while maintaining a strong presence in the strategically important Chinese market.
NVIDIA Developing Special AI GPU for China to Meet Export Controls
