U.S. chipmaker Nvidia plans to begin mass production in the second quarter of 2024 of an artificial intelligence (AI) chip it designed for China to comply with U.S. export rules, two people familiar with the matter said yesterday.

The H20 chip is the most powerful of three China-focused chips Nvidia developed to meet restrictions announced in October.

It was originally scheduled for launch last November but that plan was delayed, with sources saying at the time that the delay was due to issues server manufacturers were having in integrating the chip.

One of the people said initial production volume will be limited, with Nvidia set to primarily fulfill orders for major customers.

Reuters previously reported, citing sources, that Chinese companies are reluctant to buy the downgraded H20 and are testing domestic alternatives amid fear the United States could again tighten restrictions. Last year, search engine leader Baidu ordered AI chips from Huawei in a shift away from Nvidia.

In addition to the H20, Nvidia plans two other chips that comply with the new restrictions — the L20 and L2. The chipmaker has yet to announce the sale of any of the three. (SD-Agencies)