Latest Leak Reveals Huawei’s First ARM-Based Computer SoC: The X90, Though Specifications and Launch Timeline Remain Unconfirmed

Huawei is on a significant journey to produce its first ARM-based PC chipset, one that aims to reduce its reliance on major players like Intel and Microsoft. Despite facing numerous challenges, the company is making strides toward delivering an in-house solution for a wide range of devices. Previously detailed reports have indicated that Huawei’s custom System on Chip (SoC) will feature Kunpeng-920 cores integrated with DeepSeek technology. Recent leaks suggest that this new silicon will be named the X90, although details about its specifications or launch timeline remain unconfirmed.

Manufacturing Constraints and Future Prospects

At present, there is no clarity regarding the manufacturing process for Huawei’s X90 chipset. However, the U. S.sanctions imposed on the company likely limit its options, forcing it to rely on SMIC’s 7nm technology. Initial plans to introduce the ARM-based chipset were set for last year, but updated sources now speculate that the X90 may be unveiled in the first quarter of 2025. A recent tweet from @Jukanlosreve has further ignited interest, showcasing images of various silicons being developed by Huawei, with the X90 distinguished as a potential first for the company in adopting this technology across a multitude of products.

Challenges posed by U. S.trade restrictions have prevented Huawei from accessing cutting-edge technology, which may explain the reliance of its Kirin 9020 chipset—utilized in the Mate 70 series—on SMIC’s 7nm process. Recent reports also highlight China’s aggressive pursuit of developing EUV (Extreme Ultraviolet) lithography machinery to reduce dependency on international entities like ASML, a Dutch company operating under U. S.influence. If the X90 is indeed set to launch within this quarter, Huawei may have little choice but to continue utilizing SMIC’s 7nm lithography, potentially resulting in performance metrics that lag behind competitors such as Apple’s new M4 chips or Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite and Snapdragon X Plus series.

Hmm? Huawei’s ARM PC chip is called the Kirin X90. It seems different from what you mentioned.@tphuang pic.twitter.com/pDAupx38Gq

— Jukanlosreve (@Jukanlosreve) March 15, 2025

HarmonyOS NEXT and Unified Architecture

Huawei has an opportunity to leverage its HarmonyOS NEXT, a system purported to use fewer resources than Android. This capability implies that devices powered by the X90 chipset, despite their expected limitations in processing power, should still function smoothly. Furthermore, the company is reportedly considering a unified RAM architecture similar to Apple’s M-series chips. While this could restrict users from upgrading memory on devices utilizing the X90, it promises increased bandwidth and overall efficiency—essential elements in optimizing performance.

As developments unfold, we will keep our audience updated on this significant advancement in Huawei’s technology. Stay tuned for the latest news regarding the X90 and its implications for the tech industry.

News Source: @Jukanlosreve

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