BrainChip’s bold RISC-V bet with Andes could change Edge AI forever—Here’s why

How is BrainChip expanding its footprint in the RISC-V ecosystem through Andes Technology?

BrainChip Holdings Ltd (ASX: BRN, OTCQX: BRCHF, ADR: BCHPY), a global leader in ultra-low power, event-driven AI processing, has announced the integration of its Akida AKD1500 neural processing unit (NPU) with Andes Technology‘s high-performance RISC-V cores. This strategic collaboration is aimed at accelerating edge AI computing by combining BrainChip’s neuromorphic hardware with Andes’ QiLai SoC platform and Voyager development board. Demonstrations are set to take place at Andes RISC-V Con 2025, in San Jose on April 29 and in Hsinchu on June 10.

The partnership deepens BrainChip’s commitment to the RISC-V ecosystem by enabling developers to adopt energy-efficient AI computing directly into embedded RISC-V designs. It highlights the rising demand for edge AI capabilities that operate at extremely low power levels without sacrificing performance, a key value proposition for sectors such as automotive, IoT, and surveillance systems.

What differentiates Akida AKD1500 from traditional AI processors?

BrainChip’s Akida AKD1500 delivers more than 0.7 trillion operations per second (TOPS) of event-based neural computation while consuming less than 250mW of power. The chip leverages a spiking neural network approach, which mimics biological brain function and processes only event-driven data. This allows it to significantly reduce computation time and energy use compared to traditional convolutional neural networks (CNNs), achieving 3–10× greater compute efficiency.

Its integration via M.2 card into Andes’ Voyager development board makes it easily deployable in development workflows. The Akida AKD1500 thus offers a critical edge AI solution that aligns perfectly with the low-latency, low-power demands of next-generation embedded devices.

What makes Andes Technology’s QiLai SoC a key enabler?

The QiLai SoC incorporates the AndesCore AX45MP—a quad-core, 64-bit superscalar CPU built on TSMC’s 7nm process, capable of clocking speeds up to 2.2 GHz. Designed to support Linux-based applications, the AX45MP features a Level-2 cache, memory coherence architecture, and a Memory Management Unit (MMU). It also includes the IOCP (I/O Coherency Port), enabling direct, coherent communication between the CPU and external accelerators like BrainChip’s Akida.

This architecture supports robust compute requirements while maintaining flexibility for integration with advanced AI workloads. Its combination with the Akida NPU enables efficient edge inference processing in smart cameras, industrial sensors, and battery-powered devices that demand high responsiveness and prolonged operational lifespans.

How does this integration drive the next generation of RISC-V AI development?

The BrainChip-Andes partnership exemplifies a broader industry trend toward open, licence-free processor architectures capable of supporting custom, application-specific computing. RISC-V, as a royalty-free alternative to ARM and x86 architectures, is becoming a foundational choice for developers looking to build scalable, power-efficient systems.

By integrating Akida technology into Andes’ development infrastructure, BrainChip enables the creation of edge AI platforms that combine general-purpose processing with dedicated, ultra-low power neural acceleration. This makes the platform ideal for use cases requiring real-time AI at the edge—ranging from autonomous systems and robotics to wearable medical technology.

What industry impact can we expect from RISC-V Con 2025?

As one of the leading global conferences focused on RISC-V innovation, Andes RISC-V Con 2025 provides a key platform for showcasing BrainChip’s neuromorphic computing solutions. During the event, the company plans to demonstrate the Akida AKD1500 operating within Andes’ QiLai platform, highlighting real-world applications and energy benchmarks.

The event will facilitate collaboration across chipmakers, system architects, and AI developers. BrainChip’s participation is expected to spark interest among manufacturers and developers exploring how RISC-V and edge AI can be fused into production-ready, commercially viable systems.

What does the current market sentiment indicate about BrainChip’s performance?

Following the announcement of its collaboration with Andes Technology, BrainChip Holdings Ltd (ASX: BRN) has seen renewed bullish sentiment among investors. As of April 23, 2025, the company’s share price had surged to A$0.275—an increase of 57.14% over the previous two weeks. This uptick in valuation reflects growing investor confidence in the commercial potential of Akida’s integration within the expanding RISC-V ecosystem.

Technical indicators support this momentum. The stock has recently broken past key resistance levels, signalling a positive trend. Support is currently seen at A$0.265, with resistance at A$0.285. The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) pattern confirms a bullish outlook, although volatility remains a factor requiring careful consideration.

What do institutional flows and analyst insights reveal?

Institutional ownership of BrainChip remains relatively modest, with institutional investors holding about 2.49% of total shares. Notable investors include Vanguard and Schwab, indicating early institutional confidence but also reflecting BrainChip’s status as an emerging player in the competitive AI silicon landscape.

Analyst sentiment has shifted slightly from “Strong Buy” to “Buy,” signalling cautious optimism. Key drivers include the company’s ability to scale its Akida IP and the success of high-profile partnerships like the one with Andes. Analysts advise close monitoring of BrainChip’s IP licensing traction, silicon volume shipments, and commercial deployment metrics over the next two quarters.

With a current market capitalisation of approximately A$557 million, BrainChip is viewed as a speculative but promising stock for those seeking exposure to the next generation of AI hardware, particularly in low-power edge environments.

What is the investment outlook for BrainChip?

For investors focused on disruptive AI technologies, BrainChip offers exposure to a differentiated edge AI architecture that is both scalable and power-conscious. Its neuromorphic approach to processing—combined with RISC-V’s growing developer adoption—positions it to capitalise on a rising trend toward decentralised intelligence.

Still, as with any early-stage semiconductor company, execution risk remains high. Investors are advised to track commercial rollouts, partnership expansions, and overall industry adoption of event-based AI accelerators as critical performance markers. Should BrainChip maintain momentum through effective go-to-market execution, it could evolve into a key enabler of AI at the edge.