InCore Semiconductors, a startup based in India, aims to design and license RISC-V-based processor cores and deep-learning accelerators, alongside SoC design tools. The effort is a significant addition to the RISC-V ecosystem, indicating growing global interest in the open-source instruction set architecture as an alternative to Arm and other traditional suppliers. InCore, originating from the Shakti processor research team at IIT-Madras, plans to release its first cores by the end of the year, with two families of cores targeting edge systems from ultra-low-power IoT to desktops.
The startup’s offerings include E-class cores with three-stage pipelines for low-end applications and C-class cores with five-stage pipelines supporting the full RISC-V ISA for high-end systems. InCore also plans to provide accelerator blocks for deep learning in embedded systems, called the Axon series, and security functions under the Aegis series. Additionally, the company aims to release SoC design tools to facilitate integration and testing of its cores and blocks.
InCore intends to generate revenue through IP licensing and design services, leveraging its existing partnerships and capabilities to engage foundries. Although venture investment is not currently on the table, the startup sees strategic business potential in India and aims to establish itself as a key player in the CPU IP market. The company’s product plans were unveiled at a recent RISC-V conference in Chennai. For more details, refer to the original article below.