Nvidia launches restrictions compliant China-Focused Gaming Chip

• Nvidia launches China-focused gaming chip while complying with US export controls.
• The GeForce RTX 4090 D offers performance and AI-driven graphics, designed to adhere to export controls.
• The chip is introduced following tightened restrictions on chip exports to China by the US.

Semiconductor chip developer Nvidia has introduced a specialised gaming chip tailored for the Chinese market. This move allows the company to access the local market while adhering to export controls imposed by the United States.

Features of Nvidia’s New Gaming Chip

Nvidia has launched the “GeForce RTX 4090 D,” which offers significant performance, efficiency, and AI-driven graphics improvements.

The chip complies with US government export controls and will be available to Chinese customers in January 2024.

Nvidia’s advanced gaming chip, known as the GeForce RTX 4090 D, promises Chinese clients a significant boost in performance, efficiency, and AI-driven graphics capabilities. Importantly, the chip is designed to fully comply with US government export controls.

The Biden Administration initiated export controls on semiconductor chips to China in October 2022, subsequently tightening them on multiple occasions. As a result, Nvidia’s most powerful chips, including the A800 and H800, along with the RTX 4090 gaming chip, have been barred from sale in the Chinese market.

RTX 4090 D: Key Details

The RTX 4090 D chip for China offers slightly reduced gaming and creative performance compared to its counterparts. It is priced at 12,999 yuan ($1,842 USD).

China is a crucial market for Nvidia, accounting for over 90% of China’s $7 billion AI chip market. Following China, the United States and Taiwan represent Nvidia’s largest markets, with approximately 13% originating from other countries.

Despite export bans to China, Nvidia reported a record $18 billion in revenue for Q3, largely driven by generative AI.

China has been actively seeking solutions to circumvent U.S. government controls on AI chips. In September, it was reported that China planned to establish AI chip factories to create particle accelerators, positioning the country as a leader in the global semiconductor industry.

Nvidia’s new gaming chip for China is set to become available in January 2024, with the company navigating export controls to maintain its presence in a critical market.