Kerala start-up, backed by Zoho, launches AI chip
What's the story
Kerala-based tech start-up Netrasemi has launched its first artificial intelligence (AI) chip, the A2000. The launch comes as a major milestone for the Indian tech industry, as this is one of the first AI/ML chips designed in India. The company is backed by Zoho and has already tested its flagship A2000 AI system-on-chip (SoC), declaring it production-ready.
Chip specifications
Chip designed for compact, power-efficient edge devices
The A2000 chip is designed specifically for compact, power-efficient edge devices. It is built on TSMC's 12nm process and targets smart cameras, edge AI boxes, and intelligent video gateways. The chip packs several processing units developed in-house by Netrasemi, including dedicated engines for neural processing, computer vision, image handling, and security.
Market testing
Mass production set to begin in 2027
Netrasemi is currently conducting early trials of the A2000 chip with three customers in the surveillance and automotive sectors. The company plans to start mass production at TSMC's Taiwan facility by 2027, with a commercial launch targeted for mid-2027. "We are currently working with several OEMs on early sample evaluations and co-development," said Netrasemi CEO Jyothis Indirabhai.
Financial backing
Netrasemi has raised ₹125 crore in funding
Netrasemi has raised ₹125 crore in total funding from investors including Zoho and Unicorn India Ventures. The company was also one of the four start-ups selected for ₹15 crore support under the government's Design Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme in 2023. This financial backing has helped Netrasemi develop its innovative AI chips.
Academic partnership
Netrasemi also developing advanced edge AI server chip
Netrasemi has also developed a second chip, the R1000 AI/ML MCU, targeting the IoT sensor market. This chip was developed in collaboration with the College of Engineering Trivandrum under the MeitY Chip-to-Startup (C2S) program. The company is also working on an advanced edge AI server chip, the A4000, with MeitY support and expects it to be fabrication-ready by Q2 2027.