As demand for generative AI and edge computing continues to rise, RISC-V technology leader SiFive officially launched its second-generation Intelligence series IP in Santa Clara, USA, introducing five products targeting diverse AI applications from deeply embedded edge devices to data centers.
This update includes two newly designed X160 Gen 2 and X180 Gen 2, as well as upgraded versions of the X280 Gen 2, X390 Gen 2, and XM Gen 2, which comprehensively enhance scalar and vector processing capabilities and introduce matrix operations to the XM series for the first time, optimized for modern AI workloads.
SiFive notes that the X160 and X180 are miniaturized for remote computing and IoT applications, delivering higher performance in a very small footprint and at low power consumption. This allows edge devices such as smart cars, robotics, and industrial automation to incorporate AI capabilities at a lower cost. The X280, X390, and the matrix-engine-equipped XM, on the other hand, are targeted at high-end AI computing scenarios, spanning from narrow vector operations to large-scale matrix operations, offering customers flexible configuration options.
SiFive CEO Patrick Little stated that AI is driving RISC-V into the next era of development. Two top-tier US semiconductor companies have already adopted the X100 series solution. He also emphasized that the second-generation Intelligence IP not only improves performance but also provides greater configurability, helping customers shorten design cycles and time to market.
Deloitte predicts that AI workloads will continue to grow by more than 20% across various computing environments, with edge AI computing projected to grow by nearly 80%. Pat Moorhead, founder of Moor Insights and Strategy, noted that SiFive is perfectly positioned to address the edge AI market, which demands high efficiency and flexibility. Their new generation of products addresses real customer pain points and provides reliable solutions with a unique balance of performance and power consumption.
SiFive emphasizes the advantages of its vector processing technology, which can process multiple data points simultaneously, reducing instruction overhead and energy consumption. Compared to traditional pure scalar CPUs, vector processors can run AI models faster in a smaller area, making them ideal for edge applications. In addition, all X-series IP can be used as an accelerator control unit (ACU), equipped with dedicated interfaces (SSCI, VCIX) to control external accelerators, helping customers simplify the software stack and focus on system-level innovation.
Currently, five products are available for licensing, and the first application chip is expected to be available in the second quarter of 2026.
