The semiconductor industry is changing fast. For years, x86 and ARM have dominated, but a new player, RISC-V, is making waves. It is an open-source instruction set architecture (ISA) that allows companies to design custom processors without licensing fees. The rise of RISC-V is causing industry leaders to rethink their strategies. Is it a serious threat to x86 and ARM, or just another niche technology? Let’s break down the numbers and explore what they mean.
1. RISC-V market is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 30% between 2023 and 2030
RISC-V is growing rapidly. A compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 30% shows that companies are quickly adopting it. This kind of growth is not common in mature industries like semiconductors. It means companies see value in RISC-V and are betting big on its future.
If you are in the chip business, this growth means opportunity. Investors, developers, and businesses need to take RISC-V seriously. Whether you are an entrepreneur looking to build a startup or a major company exploring new hardware, ignoring this trend could be costly.
2. The global RISC-V market size is projected to exceed $2 billion by 2030
A $2 billion market is not just a niche. This figure signals that RISC-V is carving out a strong position in the semiconductor industry. While it is still smaller than ARM or x86, it is growing fast enough to challenge them.
For businesses, this means there is money to be made. Companies that get into the RISC-V space early can take advantage of the rising demand for customized and open-source chips. Whether you are a developer or a tech startup, understanding how RISC-V fits into your business model is crucial.
3. ARM controls about 40% of the global processor market, while x86 (Intel & AMD) holds around 55%
ARM and x86 still dominate, but their control is not absolute. Together, they account for 95% of the market, leaving some room for alternatives like RISC-V. However, competition is increasing, and RISC-V is gaining ground.
For companies relying on x86 or ARM, this shift means reconsidering long-term strategies. Should you diversify by investing in RISC-V? Should you prepare for a future where licensing fees are no longer the norm? These are critical questions that businesses must address now.
4. RISC-V processor shipments surpassed 10 billion units in 2023
Ten billion units shipped means RISC-V is not just hype; it is already being used at scale. Many of these chips are in microcontrollers and embedded systems, but more powerful RISC-V processors are emerging.
For hardware companies, this number signals mass adoption. It is time to explore partnerships and investments in the RISC-V ecosystem. For software developers, ensuring compatibility with RISC-V architectures can create new business opportunities.
5. By 2025, over 20 billion RISC-V cores are expected to be in use globally
Doubling in just two years is a significant milestone. It means RISC-V is expanding beyond experimental uses and into mainstream products.
For businesses, this is a wake-up call. If you are developing software, ensure it runs on RISC-V. If you are in manufacturing, consider how this shift affects supply chains. Staying ahead of this trend can give you a competitive advantage.
6. RISC-V adoption in AI and machine learning workloads grew by 60% YoY in 2023
AI and machine learning are some of the most demanding workloads in computing today. A 60% growth in RISC-V adoption for these tasks shows that it is being taken seriously in high-performance computing.
If you are in the AI space, exploring RISC-V-based accelerators could lower costs and improve efficiency. Customization options allow businesses to create AI-specific hardware optimized for unique workloads.
7. China is investing over $1.4 billion in RISC-V research and development
China’s investment in RISC-V is one of the biggest reasons it is gaining traction. The country sees it as a way to reduce dependence on Western-controlled chip architectures.
For global businesses, this means a shifting supply chain. Companies working with China need to be ready for increased RISC-V adoption in the region. Investors should also watch for new RISC-V startups emerging from China’s funding efforts.
8. Over 3,000 companies globally are working on RISC-V implementations
With more than 3,000 companies involved, RISC-V has broad industry support. This ecosystem includes startups, semiconductor giants, and cloud computing firms.
For decision-makers, this means the technology has staying power. Unlike many open-source projects that fail due to lack of industry backing, RISC-V is supported by a strong network of companies working to advance it.
9. The open-source nature of RISC-V has reduced chip development costs by 50% for some companies
Developing chips is expensive, but RISC-V reduces costs by eliminating licensing fees. Some companies report savings of up to 50%.
For businesses, this is a game-changer. Lower costs mean more innovation and faster product development. If you are developing a new chip, RISC-V could significantly cut expenses.
10. NVIDIA, Qualcomm, and Google have all announced major RISC-V projects in recent years
When tech giants invest in a technology, it is worth paying attention. NVIDIA, Qualcomm, and Google’s involvement shows that RISC-V is more than just a trend—it is a serious contender in the semiconductor industry.
For startups and developers, this means job opportunities and partnerships. Companies building tools and software for RISC-V may see increased demand as these tech giants continue investing.
11. In 2022, over 60% of new academic research on processor architecture involved RISC-V
Academic institutions are often ahead of industry trends. The fact that most new processor research involves RISC-V shows that the next generation of engineers is focused on it.
For companies, this means preparing for a workforce that will be skilled in RISC-V. Investing in training and hiring talent with RISC-V expertise can give businesses an advantage.
12. SiFive, a leading RISC-V company, has raised over $350 million in funding
SiFive is one of the biggest names in RISC-V development, and its funding success shows investor confidence in the technology.
For entrepreneurs, this is proof that RISC-V startups can attract significant investment. If you have a product idea in the RISC-V space, now is the time to seek funding.
13. More than 10 major cloud providers are exploring RISC-V for data center workloads
Cloud computing is a major industry, and RISC-V is starting to make inroads. Lower power consumption and cost savings make it attractive for data centers.
For businesses, this means considering how RISC-V could optimize cloud-based applications. Developing software that runs efficiently on RISC-V in the cloud could be a lucrative opportunity.
14. The European Union allocated €270 million to RISC-V development under the Horizon 2020 program
The EU’s investment in RISC-V signals a strategic shift toward open-source chip designs. This funding is meant to promote semiconductor independence, especially as Europe looks to reduce reliance on foreign chip suppliers.
For businesses operating in the EU, this funding presents opportunities. If you are a startup or research institution, securing grants or partnerships under this initiative can provide financial support for RISC-V development.
Companies looking to expand into Europe should also consider how this push affects competition in the region.
15. Intel invested $1 billion into RISC-V and open-chip architectures in 2022
Intel, traditionally an x86 stronghold, is investing heavily in RISC-V. This is a strong signal that even legacy chipmakers see its potential. The $1 billion investment is being used to support RISC-V startups, research, and manufacturing capabilities.
For developers, this means increased access to better tools, funding, and resources for RISC-V projects. If a company like Intel is putting this much money into RISC-V, businesses should evaluate how it fits into their long-term strategy.
16. RISC-V-based microcontrollers now account for 15% of the global MCU market
Microcontrollers (MCUs) are a crucial component of embedded systems, and RISC-V is gaining traction in this space. These chips are used in everything from IoT devices to industrial automation.
For product designers and manufacturers, adopting RISC-V microcontrollers can reduce costs while maintaining flexibility. Companies creating firmware should also prepare for increased RISC-V compatibility to stay competitive.
17. In 2023, 20% of IoT devices shipped with RISC-V cores
IoT is one of the fastest-growing technology sectors, and RISC-V is establishing a foothold in it. The open-source nature of RISC-V allows companies to design custom chips tailored to their specific IoT needs without paying ARM’s licensing fees.
For businesses in the IoT space, this means staying ahead by exploring RISC-V-based hardware. Manufacturers should evaluate whether switching to RISC-V can provide a competitive edge in terms of cost and performance.
18. RISC-V’s presence in automotive computing is expected to grow by 45% annually through 2030
The automotive industry is undergoing rapid technological change, with electric vehicles and autonomous driving systems requiring powerful processors. RISC-V is becoming a key player in this field.
For automotive companies, adopting RISC-V can lead to greater control over chip supply and reduced dependency on ARM-based solutions. Businesses involved in automotive software should ensure that their applications are optimized for RISC-V architectures.
19. Western Digital uses RISC-V in over 2 billion storage devices
Storage devices require efficient and low-power processors, making RISC-V a natural choice. Western Digital’s commitment to RISC-V showcases its reliability in large-scale deployments.
For storage manufacturers, this success story proves that RISC-V is ready for mainstream adoption. Companies developing storage solutions should consider integrating RISC-V into their designs to leverage its flexibility and cost benefits.
20. Alibaba’s T-Head division developed a high-performance RISC-V processor for AI workloads
Alibaba’s investment in RISC-V AI processors signals a shift toward open-source solutions in high-performance computing. Their Xuantie 910 processor has demonstrated that RISC-V can handle demanding AI and machine learning tasks.
For AI companies, this development is important. Businesses should explore whether RISC-V-based AI accelerators can provide cost savings and performance benefits compared to traditional architectures.
21. RISC-V-based CPUs are expected to be in 25% of Android smartphones by 2026
Android smartphones have long relied on ARM-based processors, but this is changing. RISC-V’s entry into the smartphone market shows its growing influence.
For mobile developers, this means ensuring that apps and software are compatible with RISC-V architectures. Smartphone manufacturers should also consider whether switching to RISC-V can provide competitive advantages in pricing and supply chain flexibility.
22. China aims for 25% of its domestic semiconductor industry to rely on RISC-V by 2030
China’s push toward semiconductor self-sufficiency is a major driver of RISC-V’s growth. The country’s goal of having 25% of its semiconductor industry powered by RISC-V will accelerate adoption.
For global businesses, this means preparing for a future where RISC-V dominates Chinese electronics. Companies that do business in China should develop a strategy to work with RISC-V-based hardware.
23. The number of RISC-V patents filed increased by over 400% between 2018 and 2023
The sharp increase in RISC-V-related patents shows that innovation is accelerating. More companies are securing intellectual property around custom RISC-V designs.
For businesses and inventors, now is the time to consider filing patents related to RISC-V technologies. Protecting your innovations early can provide a significant competitive advantage in the years ahead.
24. The RISC-V International Foundation has more than 3,500 members across 70+ countries
The global support for RISC-V is a strong indicator of its momentum. Companies and research institutions from around the world are contributing to its growth.
For businesses, joining the RISC-V International Foundation can provide networking opportunities and access to the latest developments. Companies looking to collaborate on RISC-V projects should consider becoming active members.
25. In 2023, over 50% of semiconductor startups included RISC-V in their product roadmaps
Startups are often early adopters of disruptive technologies, and more than half of new semiconductor companies are embracing RISC-V.
For investors, this signals where the industry is headed. If you are looking for promising startups, focusing on those leveraging RISC-V could yield strong returns. Established businesses should also consider acquiring or partnering with RISC-V-focused startups.
26. Major semiconductor companies like AMD and Samsung have joined the RISC-V International Foundation
When industry giants like AMD and Samsung invest in RISC-V, it is clear that it is not just for niche applications. Their involvement means RISC-V will likely become a mainstream option in the near future.
For companies relying on ARM or x86, this means evaluating whether RISC-V should be part of their long-term roadmap. Ignoring this shift could put them at a disadvantage.
27. By 2028, RISC-V is projected to capture 15% of the overall CPU market
Capturing 15% of the CPU market is a significant achievement. While ARM and x86 will still lead, RISC-V’s growing presence will put pressure on competitors to adapt.
For businesses, this means preparing for a multi-architecture future. Developers should focus on ensuring software compatibility across different processor architectures to remain flexible.
28. RISC-V adoption in edge computing is growing at a CAGR of 38%
Edge computing is one of the fastest-growing technology sectors, and RISC-V is becoming a key player in this space. Its power efficiency and customization options make it ideal for edge applications.
For businesses involved in IoT, AI, and distributed computing, adopting RISC-V-based hardware can offer significant performance and cost benefits. Staying ahead in this field could provide a major competitive advantage.
29. The global x86 processor market share is expected to decline by 5% by 2030 due to RISC-V’s growth
x86 processors have long been dominant, but RISC-V is starting to chip away at their market share. While a 5% decline may not seem drastic, it represents billions in lost revenue for traditional chipmakers.
For companies using x86-based systems, now is the time to assess whether migrating to RISC-V could offer cost savings or performance benefits. Businesses should keep a close eye on how this trend develops.
30. Google’s Android Open Source Project (AOSP) announced full RISC-V support, accelerating mobile adoption
Google’s support for RISC-V in Android is one of the biggest steps toward mainstream adoption. It means smartphone makers will have the option to design completely open-source devices without relying on ARM.
For mobile developers, ensuring apps work on RISC-V-powered Android devices should be a priority. For manufacturers, this could lower licensing costs and provide more control over hardware design.
wrapping it up
RISC-V is no longer just an experimental technology—it is a rapidly growing force in the semiconductor industry. With a projected CAGR of over 30%, major tech giants investing billions, and increasing adoption in AI, IoT, automotive, and smartphones, it is clear that RISC-V is not just another passing trend.
