China unveils upgraded AGI chip with million-fold efficiency boost

Researchers in China have introduced the Taichi-II chiplet, an advanced optical AI chip that significantly enhances energy efficiency and accuracy in classification tasks. This upgraded chip, unveiled in August 2024, boasts a million-fold improvement in energy efficiency under low-light conditions compared to its predecessor, the original Taichi chip launched in April 2024. The Taichi-II chip operates using photons instead of traditional electronic components, allowing for faster processing and reduced energy consumption. The innovative design employs a training method known as 'fully forward mode,' which enables real-time learning by allowing data to flow in one direction as light interacts with the chip's components. This method enhances the chip's performance, making it capable of processing multiple signals simultaneously without generating heat, a common issue with electronic chips. The researchers demonstrated the chip's capabilities by connecting several chiplets to simulate a network of nearly 14 million artificial neurons, surpassing previous designs. The modular architecture of the Taichi-II chip suggests that it could be combined with other chiplets to create powerful AI systems, potentially paving the way for artificial general intelligence (AGI) in the future. While AGI remains a theoretical concept, the advancements made with the Taichi-II chip indicate significant progress in the field of optical computing and AI. This development not only highlights the potential of light-based processing technologies but also positions China at the forefront of AI research. The implications of such advancements could lead to more efficient AI models capable of human-like reasoning and learning, marking a significant step toward the realization of super-intelligent AI systems.