Tesla AI5 chip reportedly completes tape-out for Samsung’s Texas fab
Samsung Electronics has reportedly completed the tape-out of its version of Tesla’s AI5 chip for self-driving systems, with the chip scheduled to be manufactured at Samsung’s Taylor, Texas, fab using the company’s 2nm process.
Trump admin reportedly urged Apple to procure chips from Intel in exchange for dropping tariffs
Reports have emerged that Apple may have managed to avoid 100% tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, partly by agreeing to partner with Intel to manufacture its chips. While Apple could benefit from expanding its chip suppliers, the episode also shows the power of Intel’s government backing as the US seeks to reshore its semiconductor industry.
SK Hynix reportedly starts Nvidia HBM4 shipments ahead of September ramp
SK Hynix began mass-production shipments of 12-layer HBM4 to Nvidia at the end of June and is increasing output ahead of a broader ramp, The Bell reported, citing semiconductor industry sources.
China Life commits US$700M to semiconductor fund under Beijing’s patient capital strategy
China Life Insurance Company Limited plans to invest CNY4.999 billion (US$697 million) in a new CNY5 billion semiconductor private equity fund, extending Beijing’s effort to direct long-term insurance capital into strategic chip technologies.
China’s 2030 target for 30% NEV adoption raises the stakes for foreign automakers
China is tying its climate agenda more closely to industrial policy. The State Council’s newly released Action Plan for Carbon Peaking in the 15th Five-Year Plan sets ambitious targets that could further accelerate domestic new energy vehicle (NEV) adoption while intensifying pressure on foreign automakers.
TSMC June 2026 revenue surges 68% as AI demand continues to fuel growth
MiniMax bets US$2 billion on AI infrastructure as lock-up selloff deepens its split with Z.ai
Tencent seeks control of Manus after China blocks Meta’s US$2 billion AI deal
Tencent is in talks to become the largest shareholder in Manus, leading a proposed buyback of the AI agent startup after Chinese regulators ordered Meta Platforms to unwind its US$2 billion acquisition.