Chinese engineers are developing artificial intelligence chips for use in “advanced weapons systems” and have been granted access to cutting-edge British technology, as reported by the Guardian.
Moore Thread and Viren Technology, described as “China’s leading AI chip designers,” have been subject to U.S. export controls for their chip development. It is noted that the technology can provide artificial intelligence capabilities for the advancement of weapons of mass destruction, advanced weapons systems, and high-tech surveillance applications that raise national security concerns.
Before being blacklisted in the US in 2023, the companies had a broad license with UK-based Imagination Technologies, known for its expertise in designing advanced microchips essential for AI systems.
Imagination Technologies, a representative of the UK technology industry, denied intentionally trying to relocate its cutting-edge secrets to China. Representatives from Imagination confirmed the existence of licenses to Moore Thread and Viren Technology.
Allegations have arisen regarding Imagination’s partnerships with Chinese companies and the potential risks of knowledge transfer. Tensions between business with China and national security concerns have been highlighted by these developments.
Since 2020, at least three Chinese companies have obtained licenses to use Imagination’s chip designs, raising concerns about the potential misuse of intellectual property.
Imagination has worked closely with Apple in the past, contributing to the development of iPhone chips. However, concerns have been raised about the risks of sharing too much of its intellectual property with Chinese companies.
The acquisition of Imagination by a Chinese-backed buyer in 2017 raised further concerns about technology transfer and national security implications.
Imagination’s arrangements with Chinese customers are considered “totally normal” and have been described as limited in scope, duration, and usage rights.
Imagination’s policy of not doing business with companies on the US government’s Entity List raises questions about the termination of licenses granted to Chinese companies in October 2023.
A new report from the UK and China transparency research institute sheds light on further questions surrounding Chinese companies’ relationships with Imagination.
Moore Thread and Biren Technology, two Chinese chipmakers, have faced scrutiny for their development of GPUs for AI systems with potential ties to Imagination’s technology.
Funding for Biren Technology comes from the Russia-China Investment Fund, sparking concerns about deepening alliances between China and Moscow in the tech industry.
Source: www.theguardian.com
