In 30 seconds
Matthew Berman discusses reports that DeepSeek is developing an AI chip and that Zhipu is considering a custom processor. He sees reduced reliance on external suppliers as a strategic motivation. The reports describe development and exploration, not evidence that either company's proposed chip is already manufactured or deployed.
- 1A reported chip projectBerman says DeepSeek is reportedly working on a chip; the report does not establish a completed product.
- 2Reducing relianceHe argues that custom hardware could reduce dependence on Nvidia and give model developers more control.
- 3Zhipu also exploringBerman mentions reports about Zhipu, the company behind GLM-5.2. Model rankings depend on the evaluation.
Takeaways
- Reports in July 2026 said DeepSeek was developing a custom AI chip and Zhipu was exploring one.
- Berman argues that proprietary chips could reduce dependence on external hardware suppliers.
- Designing a chip does not by itself guarantee control over fabrication, equipment or the whole supply chain.
- His description of GLM-5.2 as the best open model is an opinion, not a universal ranking.
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DeepSeek and custom chips
Berman discusses reports of a DeepSeek chip project and its potential strategic appeal.
Matthew Berman discusses reports that DeepSeek, a Chinese AI model developer, is working on a custom AI chip. Reuters reported the development in July 2026 based on people familiar with the matter. The report concerns a project in development, not proof that the resulting chip has been manufactured or deployed.
Berman argues that making custom chips could reduce dependence on outside suppliers such as Nvidia and give a company more control over its AI stack. A chip design alone does not establish control over fabrication, equipment and the wider supply chain.
Another model developer
He says Zhipu is also reportedly considering an AI chip. The clip does not establish that either project has produced hardware.
He adds that Zhipu, the developer of GLM-5.2, is also reportedly considering its own AI chip. His description of the model as the best open model is his assessment, and the brief clip does not provide a benchmark establishing a universal ranking.
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