Arm Holdings has unveiled its latest innovation in mobile chip design with a new series called Lumex. These chips are specifically optimised to facilitate the operation of artificial intelligence applications directly on devices such as smartphones and smartwatches, eliminating the need for an internet connection. The move marks a significant leap toward making AI-powered experiences faster and more accessible while preserving user privacy and reducing reliance on cloud-based computing.

Four Chip Variants 

The Lumex series comprises four distinct chip types, each tailored to meet a range of performance and energy efficiency needs. At the lower end, the designs cater to wearable gadgets like smartwatches, focusing on ultra-low power consumption. On the other hand, the high-performance versions are engineered to deliver the computing strength required to operate large AI models locally, bringing advanced features such as real-time AI translation to high-end smartphones without internet access.

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AI Is Now an Everyday Interaction

“AI is quickly becoming a central part of everyday interactions, whether it's enabling real-time communication or powering breakthrough applications like AI-driven translation,” said Chris Bergey, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Arm. “We’re seeing it shift from being an optional feature to something users now expect.”

Compute Subsystems Strategy 

These new designs are part of Arm's broader Compute Subsystems (CSS) strategy, which aims to provide handset manufacturers and chip developers with ready-to-use, optimised technology that accelerates product development and enhances user experiences. By offering a more complete and efficient design, Arm hopes to strengthen its presence in both mobile and data centre markets while expanding its revenue streams.

Investment in Future Chip Design 

Arm’s long-term vision includes deeper investments in chip design and manufacturing capabilities. The company has already hired key industry experts to explore new avenues, including the possibility of designing its own chips in-house, further reinforcing its commitment to staying ahead in the AI-driven mobile ecosystem.

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Optimised for 3-Nanometre Manufacturing Process

The Lumex designs are built to take advantage of cutting-edge 3-nanometre manufacturing technology, such as that provided by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). Notably, this same technology underpins the latest iPhone processors announced recently, underscoring how Arm’s new designs align with industry trends and performance benchmarks.

China Launch to Target Leading Smartphone Makers

The company plans to unveil Lumex in China, a strategic decision given that most of the world’s top smartphone manufacturers, apart from giants like Apple and Samsung, are based there. Arm’s move signals its intent to strengthen its footprint in one of the largest and fastest-growing mobile markets.

Shaping the Future of Mobile AI

With Lumex, Arm is not just launching a new product line; it’s shaping the future of mobile AI. By enabling smarter, faster, and more secure AI processing on devices, the company is setting the stage for the next wave of innovations in mobile technology.