Upstart chipmakers keep challenging Nvidia. This time it's Microsoft-backed D-Matrix

CNBC reports that Microsoft-backed D-Matrix has begun production of its Corsair AI inference chip, positioning itself as a new challenger to Nvidia in the rapidly expanding AI accelerator market. D-Matrix claims Corsair can run certain inference workloads 10 times faster and use five times less energy than a standalone Nvidia GPU, though only for smaller workloads. The startup says it has already secured commitments from hyperscalers, neoclouds and frontier AI labs, with shipments starting this month. The piece highlights that D-Matrix is trying to carve out a niche alongside Nvidia rather than replace it, as many customers may use the chips together. It also underscores broader industry competition from Cerebras and Groq, while noting supply-chain advantages from using SRAM instead of DRAM. The article frames AI inference as a major growth opportunity and suggests continued investor interest in alternatives to Nvidia’s dominance.