SiFive introduces 2nd Gen Intelligence RISC-V AI CPUs: X160, X180, X280 Gen 2, X390 Gen 2, and XM Gen 2 - CNX Software

Abstract

SiFive has officially introduced its second generation of Intelligence RISC-V AI CPUs, significantly expanding its processor portfolio dedicated to machine learning and AI acceleration. This new lineup includes fresh cores like the X160 and X180, alongside updated 'Gen 2' versions of its existing high-performance processors, the X280, X390, and XM. The launch aims to provide enhanced performance and specialized features tailored for demanding AI inference workloads across various embedded and edge computing applications.

Report

Key Highlights

• New Generation Launch: SiFive introduced its 2nd Gen Intelligence RISC-V AI CPUs, underscoring a commitment to the AI/ML market segment.
• Expanded Portfolio: The lineup includes five distinct product families: X160, X180, X280 Gen 2, X390 Gen 2, and XM Gen 2.
• Focus on AI: These cores are explicitly designated as "Intelligence" CPUs, indicating specialization in accelerating machine learning and AI inference tasks.
• Tiered Offering: The introduction of multiple models (X160 up to X390) suggests a broad strategy targeting different performance, power, and complexity requirements in the AI ecosystem.

Technical Details

• Architecture: Based on the open-standard RISC-V Instruction Set Architecture (ISA).
• Product Segmentation: New models include the X160 and X180, likely targeting entry-level or mid-range AI applications.
• Updates to Flagship Cores: Existing high-performance models have been upgraded to Gen 2 status (X280 Gen 2, X390 Gen 2, and XM Gen 2), implying significant microarchitectural improvements, possibly including wider vector units, deeper pipelines, or enhanced memory hierarchies optimized for neural network computation.
• Implied Features: The "Intelligence" designation strongly suggests heavy integration or optimization for RISC-V Vector (RVV) extensions, custom AI accelerators, or specialized SiFive core extensions for ML processing.

Implications

• Maturation of RISC-V Ecosystem: The introduction of a second generation of specialized AI cores by a major vendor like SiFive demonstrates the rapid maturation and commercial viability of RISC-V in high-demand compute areas.
• Increased Competition: SiFive strengthens its position as a primary alternative to proprietary architectures (like ARM) in the crucial edge AI, automotive, and embedded vision markets.
• Broader Adoption: A diversified and updated product stack (X160 to XM Gen 2) lowers the barrier to entry and provides clearer scaling paths for developers and hardware manufacturers utilizing RISC-V for AI.
• Performance Benchmark Shift: The Gen 2 cores will likely set new performance benchmarks for efficiency and throughput within the RISC-V AI landscape, driving further innovation among competing IP vendors.