Tag: China

  • Report: Huawei from China may unveil IPO plans in 2024

    Report: Huawei from China may unveil IPO plans in 2024

    Huawei Considering IPO as Potential Strategy for Growth

    Huawei, the renowned Chinese tech giant, may be changing its stance on going public and considering an initial public offering (IPO). Despite CEO Ren Zhengfei’s previous assertions against an IPO, a new report by Reuters suggests that Huawei could be open to the idea if it aligns with China’s national interests and attracts valuable investment capital.

    Challenges and Resilience

    In recent years, Huawei has faced significant challenges, particularly due to the US sanctions imposed on the company. However, Huawei has displayed remarkable resilience, overcoming these obstacles by developing its own Kirin 9000s series chipsets and successfully launching 5G smartphones. Despite the restrictions, Huawei continues to defy the odds, as evidenced by its recent announcement of the Qingyun L540 laptop powered by the Kirin 9006C, a 5nm chip.

    Impact of Foreign Restrictions

    Despite Huawei’s impressive technological advancements, the impact of foreign restrictions on the company’s growth cannot be ignored. In 2022, Huawei’s profit margin dropped to 7%, resulting in a net profit of only $5.1 billion. However, Huawei’s strong brand reputation and technological prowess still position the company for high market valuation.

    Valuation Potential

    According to Reuters, Huawei could potentially be valued at $128 billion, based on a similar price-to-earnings ratio as Apple. However, some experts, such as Ni Guangnan, the former chief technology officer of Lenovo, suggest that Huawei’s valuation could be even higher, possibly reaching $1.3 trillion.

    Crucial Role of Chinese Investors

    Chinese investors could play a crucial role in propelling Huawei’s growth, as seen in the success story of SMIC, a chipmaker that thrived after a Shanghai IPO following its delisting from the US. By raising capital through public markets, Huawei could potentially accelerate its development and regain lost ground in the global tech race. The involvement of Chinese investors would be instrumental in achieving this goal.

    A Significant Shift

    While Huawei’s IPO plans are yet to materialize, the mere possibility marks a significant shift for the company. Previously prioritizing societal ideals over going public, Huawei now seems open to the idea if it aligns with China’s national interests and can drive valuable investment capital. Only time will reveal if Huawei ultimately decides to pursue an IPO, but the potential implications are undoubtedly noteworthy.

    Pricing and Specification Details:

    • Huawei’s profit margin in 2022: 7%
    • Huawei’s net profit in 2022: $5.1 billion
    • Potential valuation of Huawei: $128 billion (based on a similar price-to-earnings ratio as Apple)
    • Expert suggestion for Huawei’s valuation: $1.3 trillion
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  • China’s Quest for Chip Independence Evident in Guangdong’s Ambitious $1.5 Billion Strategy

    China’s Quest for Chip Independence Evident in Guangdong’s Ambitious $1.5 Billion Strategy

    In a move aimed at strengthening its semiconductor industry, China’s Guangdong province has announced the establishment of a $1.5 billion chip fund. This initiative is a significant step towards achieving semiconductor self-reliance, a goal that has become more urgent due to escalating export restrictions from the US.

    China’s commitment to supporting its chip industry

    The Guangdong Semiconductor and Integrated Circuit Industry Equity Investment Fund, now in its second phase, demonstrates China’s determination to support its chip industry in the face of international pressures. Led by Guangdong’s provincial government and two municipal government funds, this initiative clearly signals China’s commitment to achieving technological independence.

    Regional efforts to boost the semiconductor sector

    This move by Guangdong is not an isolated one. Similar efforts are being made across China, including the establishment of Shanghai’s semiconductor investment fund in 2016. These regional strategies align with Beijing’s broader goals, highlighting a national consensus on the importance of the semiconductor sector.

    Global recognition of the strategic importance of semiconductors

    Interestingly, the US has also adopted a similar strategy with its 2022 Chips and Science Act, demonstrating a global recognition of the strategic importance of the semiconductor industry. The act promises subsidies for chip projects, indicating a global race towards achieving semiconductor prowess.

    Financing and local government involvement

    The Guangdong fund is the second phase of the initiative, following a successful first phase that was initiated in December 2020. The current phase is primarily financed by Guangdong Yuecai Holdings, emphasizing the role of local government in driving technological advancements. This fund serves as a local counterpart to China’s National Integrated Circuit Industry Investment Fund, also known as the Big Fund, which has played a crucial role in China’s semiconductor progress despite various challenges.

    A comprehensive approach to semiconductor development

    China’s approach to semiconductor development is comprehensive, involving both the state and private sectors. This “whole-nation” strategy is not only aimed at advancing technology but also serves as a response to intensified US trade sanctions. Recent US export control rules have further emphasized the urgency of China’s efforts. While the path to self-reliance in semiconductors may be long, China is demonstrating its determination. As the industry continues to evolve, the implications of these developments on global technology and trade dynamics will be profound and far-reaching.

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  • China’s Non-Technical Firms Look to Nvidia Amid Escalating US-China Technology Conflict

    China’s Non-Technical Firms Look to Nvidia Amid Escalating US-China Technology Conflict

    Chinese Firms Acquiring Nvidia GPUs Amid US-China Tech Conflict

    Several non-tech Chinese firms are turning to Nvidia graphics processing units (GPUs) to bolster their artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities amidst the intensifying tech war between Washington and Beijing. This trend highlights the wider impact of geopolitical tensions on the global technology landscape.

    L&A Design's Strategic Move

    Shenzhen-listed landscape designer L&A Design recently announced a significant investment of 435 million yuan (US$60.5 million) to acquire up to 128 units of Nvidia servers with high-performance GPUs through a subsidiary. The move aims to enhance the company's AI capabilities and navigate the complexities arising from the US-China tech conflict. The purchase will be completed in two phases, with 64 servers expected by 2023 and the remaining servers by the end of 2024, facilitated by Shenzhen Runxin Supply Chain.

    Market Response and Nvidia's Adaptations

    Following the announcement, L&A Design's stock price surged by the daily limit of 20%, indicating investor confidence in the strategic decision. In response to US sanctions, Nvidia has modified its chips, creating the A800 and H800 variants tailored for Chinese clients. However, subsequent controls in October restricted the sale of these modified chips to China, prompting companies like L&A Design to seek alternative sources for their AI development needs.

    Diversification Beyond Tech Firms

    L&A Design is following in the footsteps of Lotus Health, a powdered flavor maker, which previously disclosed a deal to purchase Nvidia H800 GPU-based servers from Chinese server maker H3C. This growing trend highlights the broader impact of the US-China tech conflict on industries beyond the traditional technology sector.

    Global Impact on Nvidia

    As US export restrictions affect Nvidia's lower computing power AI chip products designed for the Chinese market, the company anticipates a significant hit to its fourth-quarter earnings. With over 90% of China's $7 billion market for AI chips, Nvidia faces challenges from both established players and emerging Chinese chip designers.

    Chinese Chip Designers Challenge Nvidia's Dominance

    In response to the challenges faced by Nvidia, Chinese chip designers, including major players like Huawei and Tencent, are aggressively entering the AI chip market. Huawei's Ascend 910B chip and Tencent's Zixiao AI inference chip are positioned as alternatives, with Tencent actively promoting its offerings to attract Nvidia's clients.

    Market Opportunity Amid Restrictions

    Despite potential challenges in winning orders due to production capacity constraints, Chinese chip designers view the current situation as an opportunity. US export curbs inadvertently fuel China's self-development capability, with Chinese tech giants prioritizing sustainability over performance and building AI ecosystems without relying on US chips.

    In essence, the rush of non-tech Chinese firms towards Nvidia GPUs signals a broader reshaping of the global AI landscape, driven by geopolitical tensions and the pursuit of technological self-sufficiency.

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  • China’s AI Surge Could Revolutionize Several Industries

    China’s AI Surge Could Revolutionize Several Industries

    China’s Rapid Development in Artificial Intelligence

    We live in a world where technology evolves rapidly. China’s leap into artificial intelligence (AI) is just one other instance of rapid development. A recent report by a Beijing think tank affiliated with China’s industry ministry has highlighted an impressive forecast: by 2035, Chinese generative AI is expected to make up a whopping 30 trillion yuan (about US$4.2 trillion) of the global AI market’s value. This figure is a third of the industry’s expected global value of 90 trillion yuan.

    Rapid Adoption of AI in China

    This year alone, the value of China’s generative AI market is set to hit 10 trillion yuan, showcasing the country’s swift adoption of AI across various sectors. Generative AI, which includes advanced technologies like those in OpenAI’s ChatGPT, is rapidly being integrated into industries such as manufacturing, retail, telecommunications, and healthcare. With an adoption rate of around 15%, it’s clear that AI is no longer a futuristic concept but a present reality in China.

    AI Adoption Across Different Sectors

    The retail and telecom sectors are leading the AI adoption race with 13% and 10% respectively. Healthcare and manufacturing are not far behind, adopting these technologies at 7% and 5%. This diverse application demonstrates the flexibility and potential of AI in improving efficiency and innovation across different fields.

    Integration of AI in Major Tech Companies

    The success of AI technologies like ChatGPT has spurred a wave of similar innovations in China. Major tech companies such as Baidu, Tencent, ByteDance, SenseTime, and iFlyTek are not just exploring but actively integrating AI into their services. Tencent’s Hunyuan model, for example, is now used in over 180 services including Tencent Meeting, Tencent Docs, and their online advertising ventures.

    Image Credits: Marc Olivier

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  • January 16 marks the launch of ASUS ROG Phone 8 Series in China

    January 16 marks the launch of ASUS ROG Phone 8 Series in China

    ASUS has officially announced that the highly anticipated ROG Phone 8 series will be making its debut in China on January 16. The gaming smartphone is expected to come equipped with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and ASUS’s advanced heat dissipation technology to deliver top-notch gaming performance. Although the announcement did not provide any new information about the device, it did reveal that the launch event will take place at 7:30 PM (GMT+8).

    What We Know So Far

    While ASUS has not released many details about the ROG Phone 8 series, a teaser image shared by the company offers a glimpse of the back design. Netizens have analyzed the image and enhanced the shadows, revealing a redesigned camera island. The camera module is square-shaped and cuts off from the right edge, giving it a pentagon-like appearance. It features three camera modules and an LED flash. Based on the absence of flashy RGB LEDs on the back, it is speculated that this might be the standard version of the ROG Phone 8.

    Geekbench listings have also provided some interesting insights into the three models of the series: ROG Phone 8, ROG Phone 8 Pro, and ROG Phone 8 Ultimate. The vanilla model is expected to come with 16GB of RAM, while the Pro and Ultimate models will have 24GB of RAM. Additionally, the vanilla ROG Phone 8 will be equipped with a standard Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, while the Pro and Ultimate models will feature an overclocked variant of the chip with a slightly boosted peak clock speed.

    Global Launch and CES 2024

    Although the global launch date for the ROG Phone 8 series has not been confirmed, ASUS ROG has scheduled an event on January 8, a day before CES 2024, to unveil its “exciting new lineup for 2024.” Speculations suggest that this event might serve as the platform for ASUS to introduce the ROG Phone 8 to the global market.

    Fans of the ASUS ROG series are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the ROG Phone 8 series. With its powerful processor, cutting-edge heat dissipation technology, and impressive RAM capacity, the gaming smartphone is expected to deliver an exceptional gaming experience. Stay tuned for more updates as ASUS prepares to launch its latest flagship gaming devices.

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  • China presents Vivo X Fold 2 for just $923

    China presents Vivo X Fold 2 for just $923

    Huge Price Drop on Vivo X Fold 2 Smartphone available at JD.com

    Currently, the Chinese e-commerce platform JD.com is presenting a significant discount opportunity for the Vivo X Fold 2 smartphone. Initially valued at 8,999 yuan ($1,254), this cutting-edge device is now accessible at an attractive price of 6,624 yuan ($923) post application of various discount vouchers.

    Steps to Claim the Discount

    To benefit from this deal, JD.com is giving a direct reduction of 1,500 yuan ($209) on the smartphone. Moreover, there exists a time-sensitive discount coupon of 500 yuan ($70) that can be obtained by following these simple guidelines:

    1. Visit the live broadcast room
    2. Tap on the upper right corner
    3. Click on the shopping bag in the lower right corner
    4. Search for Vivo to get a 500 yuan coupon

    Furthermore, a 9.5% off Dongguan consumption coupon is available for redemption by clicking here.

    Key Features of Vivo X Fold 2

    At a budget-friendly cost, the Vivo X Fold 2 showcases remarkable specifications. It flaunts an expansive 8.03-inch 2K+ E6 LTPO AMOLED internal screen, in addition to a 6.53-inch E6 AMOLED external display. This smartphone runs on the top-tier Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor from the previous year, combined with 12GB LPDDR5 RAM. Buyers can opt for either 256GB or 512GB of onboard storage.

    In the realm of photography, the Vivo X Fold 2 comes equipped with a triple rear camera configuration. This setup includes a high-res 50MP primary camera, accompanied by dual 12MP + 12MP secondary sensors. The device also integrates the Vivo V2 chip to enhance photography and videography. For capturing selfies, there is a 16MP front camera available.

    The smartphone is supported by a 4,800mAh battery, which facilitates 120W rapid wired charging and 50W wireless charging. It comes with pre-installed Android 13-based OriginOS 3, granting access to Google Mobile Services and Google Play Store.

    Purchasing Options for International Customers

    For individuals located outside of China, Giztop is extending a $300 discount on the Vivo X Fold 2. They are prepared to ship the device directly to your location.

    Seize the opportunity to acquire the Vivo X Fold 2 at its most affordable price ever. Explore JD.com or Giztop now to benefit from these outstanding deals.

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  • Surprise Sale: Redmi 12R Released in China Post Redmi 13R Launch

    Surprise Sale: Redmi 12R Released in China Post Redmi 13R Launch

    Redmi 12R: A Silent Launch in China

    Redmi, a subsidiary of Xiaomi, has quietly released the Redmi 12R smartphone for purchase in China. This device comes as a predecessor to the recently unveiled Redmi 13R and is available online for the same price of 999 Yuan (~$139).

    The Redmi 12R was first spotted in August, but it didn’t receive much attention at the time. Initially, it was only accessible through offline channels and third-party retailers. However, it has now made its debut in the online sphere and can be purchased on Xiaomi Mall.

    Redmi 12R Specifications

    The Redmi 12R features a large 6.79-inch LCD panel with a Full HD+ resolution of 1080 x 2460 pixels. It also boasts a 90Hz refresh rate, a 240Hz touch sampling rate, and a brightness of 550 nits. Powering the device is the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset, accompanied by 4 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 128 GB of UFS 2.2 storage.

    With a 5,000mAh battery, the Redmi 12R offers support for 18W charging. It runs on the Android 13 operating system with the MIUI 14 custom skin.

    Camera and Design

    On the front of the device, there is a 5-megapixel selfie camera. At the back, the Redmi 12R sports a 50-megapixel primary camera along with a 2-megapixel depth sensor and an LED flash. The smartphone is available in two color options: Obsidian Black and Smoke Green.

    Rebranded Version

    Interestingly, the Redmi 12R is essentially a rebranded version of the Poco M6 Pro 5G, which is available in markets outside of China. This means that the specifications and features of both devices are likely to be very similar.

    In addition, there have been recent leaks suggesting that the Redmi 13R will be rebranded as the Poco M6 5G in India.

    With its affordable price tag and decent specifications, the Redmi 12R offers an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers in China. It will be interesting to see if Redmi plans to release this device in other markets as well.

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  • OnePlus 12 Launched in China at a Starting Price of around $600

    OnePlus 12 Launched in China at a Starting Price of around $600

    OnePlus 12: Pricing and Specifications

    The highly anticipated OnePlus 12 smartphone, featuring the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, was officially announced by OnePlus on December 5 in China. Today, the brand has made the device available for purchase in its home market. Let's take a closer look at the pricing and specifications of this flagship phone.

    Pricing Details

    In China, the OnePlus 12 is offered in four different variants:

    • 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage: priced at 4,299 Yuan (~$598)
    • 16 GB RAM + 512 GB storage: priced at 4,799 Yuan (~$668)
    • 16 GB RAM + 1 TB storage: priced at 5,299 Yuan (~$738)
    • 24 GB RAM + 1 TB storage: priced at 5,799 Yuan (~$807)

    The device is available in three attractive color options: black, green, and silver.

    Impressive Specifications

    The OnePlus 12 boasts a large 6.82-inch BOE X1 OLED display that delivers a stunning 2K resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Running on the ColorOS 14-based Android 14, this smartphone offers a seamless and user-friendly experience.

    For enhanced security, the OnePlus 12 features an in-screen fingerprint sensor, ensuring quick and convenient access to the device.

    Camera Capabilities

    On the front, the OnePlus 12 houses a high-resolution 32-megapixel selfie camera, perfect for capturing detailed and vibrant self-portraits. On the rear, users will find a powerful camera setup, including a 50-megapixel LYT-808 main camera with OIS support, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 64-megapixel periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. With this versatile camera system, users can capture professional-grade photos and videos in any scenario.

    Impressive Performance

    Under the hood, the OnePlus 12 is powered by the cutting-edge Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, ensuring lightning-fast performance and efficient multitasking. It offers up to a staggering 24 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage, providing ample space for all your files, apps, and media.

    To keep up with the demands of the modern user, the OnePlus 12 is equipped with a robust 5,400mAh battery. This battery supports 100W wired charging, allowing you to quickly recharge your device, and 50W wireless charging, providing the convenience of cable-free power.

    With its impressive specifications and powerful performance, the OnePlus 12 is set to deliver an exceptional smartphone experience. Whether you're a photography enthusiast, a gaming fanatic, or a multitasking pro, this flagship device has everything you need.

    So, if you're in China, don't miss the opportunity to get your hands on the OnePlus 12 and experience its remarkable features firsthand.

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  • China launches new silver iQOO Pad with a starting price of 2,299 Yuan (~$315)

    China launches new silver iQOO Pad with a starting price of 2,299 Yuan (~$315)

    iQOO Pad: New Silver Variant Launched for Double Eleven Shopping Festival

    iQOO Pad’s Silver Variant Launched

    In May, iQOO unveiled the iQOO Pad as its first-ever tablet. The Dimensity 9000+ powered tablet was made available in grey at launch. In July, the brand introduced its light blue variant. Now, for the Double Eleven (Nov. 11) shopping festival in China, iQOO has announced the third color variant of the iQOO Pad.

    iQOO Pad Specifications

    The iQOO Pad has a 12.1-inch LCD panel that offers a 2.8K resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, and 600 nits of brightness. The tablet comes with support for optional accessories, such as a keyboard and stylus. It runs on OriginOS 3-flavored Android 13 and offers connectivity options such as Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, and a USB-C port.

    Under the hood, the iQOO Pad has the Dimensity 9000 Plus chipset, LPDDR5 RAM, and UFS 3.1 storage. For heat dissipation, it has a 14,442mm2 vapor chamber unit. The device packs a 10,000mAh battery that supports 44W fast charging. It features an 8-megapixel camera on the front and a 12-megapixel (main) + 12-megapixel (ultra-wide) dual-camera system on the back.

    iQOO Pad’s Silver Variant Pricing and Configurations

    Starting today, the iQOO Pad is available in a new silver variant. The tablet comes in four configurations:

    • 8 GB RAM + 128 GB storage – priced at 2,299 Yuan (~$315)
    • 8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage – priced at 2,599 Yuan (~$356)
    • 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage – priced at 2,899 Yuan (~$397)
    • 12 GB RAM + 512 GB storage – priced at 3,199 Yuan (~$439)

    Apart from silver, it can be bought in shades like grey and light blue.

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