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
What This Explosive Growth Means for the Industry
The semiconductor industry is experiencing a once-in-a-generation transformation, and RISC-V is at the heart of it.
With projections showing over 20 billion RISC-V cores in use by 2025, businesses across industries need to pay attention. This growth is not just about numbers—it signals a fundamental shift in how companies approach processor development, licensing, and innovation.
For decades, the market has been controlled by proprietary architectures, forcing companies to either license expensive cores or design their technology around restrictive ecosystems.
RISC-V is changing that equation by offering a royalty-free, highly customizable alternative. This means businesses now have a viable path to creating purpose-built processors tailored to their needs—without the overhead of legacy architectures.
6. RISC-V adoption in AI and machine learning workloads grew by 60% YoY in 2023
Why AI and Machine Learning Are Fueling RISC-V’s Growth
Artificial intelligence and machine learning workloads demand high-performance, low-power, and customizable computing solutions.
Traditional architectures like x86 and ARM have long dominated this space, but their limitations—such as licensing costs, proprietary design restrictions, and lack of deep customizability—are making companies rethink their strategy.
RISC-V’s rapid growth in AI is no accident. Its open-source nature allows companies to fine-tune processors to meet the precise demands of AI models. Whether it’s optimizing data flow, reducing power consumption, or creating highly parallelized compute units, RISC-V provides unmatched flexibility.
The result? A significant 60% year-over-year increase in adoption for AI and machine learning workloads in 2023. This is more than just a trend—it’s a signal that businesses are shifting away from traditional architectures in favor of greater control and efficiency.
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
A Global Surge in RISC-V Adoption
More than 3,000 companies worldwide are actively developing RISC-V-based solutions, signaling a fundamental shift in the semiconductor industry.
This isn’t just about small startups experimenting with open-source hardware—major corporations, cloud providers, consumer electronics giants, and industrial manufacturers are all investing in RISC-V.
This level of adoption highlights a crucial point: RISC-V is not just an alternative architecture; it is becoming a cornerstone of next-generation computing. Businesses that ignore this trend risk falling behind in an industry that is rapidly moving toward customization, cost efficiency, and supply chain resilience.
9. The open-source nature of RISC-V has reduced chip development costs by 50% for some companies
Why the Cost Savings Are More Than Just a Number
One of the most powerful advantages of RISC-V is how its open-source model drives down chip development costs—often by as much as 50% for companies that strategically leverage it.
But this cost reduction isn’t just about cutting expenses. It’s about shifting the economics of chip design in a way that empowers businesses to move faster, customize more effectively, and outmaneuver competitors.
For startups and established players alike, this is a game-changer. Traditional semiconductor development comes with massive licensing fees, proprietary tools, and vendor lock-ins that limit flexibility. RISC-V removes those barriers, offering a path to innovation without the excessive price tag.
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
Universities are Driving RISC-V Innovation at an Unprecedented Pace
Academia has become the proving ground for cutting-edge processor architectures, and RISC-V is at the center of this revolution. In 2022, over 60% of all new research on processor design focused on RISC-V.
This isn’t just a statistic—it’s a clear signal that universities worldwide see RISC-V as the future of computing.
Why does this matter for businesses? Unlike proprietary architectures like ARM and x86, RISC-V thrives in an open ecosystem. Academic institutions are developing optimizations, security enhancements, and efficiency breakthroughs without the constraints of licensing fees or closed-source limitations.
These innovations are flowing directly into startups, enterprises, and even Fortune 500 companies looking for next-generation solutions.
Companies that engage with university-led RISC-V research today will gain an early-mover advantage. Partnering with research institutions, funding grants, and participating in open-source projects can position businesses at the forefront of the next big wave in processor technology.
12. SiFive, a leading RISC-V company, has raised over $350 million in funding
Why SiFive’s Funding Matters for the Future of RISC-V
SiFive isn’t just another semiconductor company—it’s the face of the RISC-V revolution. With over $350 million in funding from top-tier investors, the company is proving that RISC-V is more than an open-source curiosity—it’s a viable, scalable, and investable alternative to ARM and x86.
For businesses, this signals a major shift. The semiconductor industry has long been dominated by a few giants, making it difficult for companies to find alternatives that balance cost, performance, and flexibility.
SiFive’s success shows that investors believe in a future where proprietary architectures no longer dictate the market.
13. More than 10 major cloud providers are exploring RISC-V for data center workloads
Why Cloud Giants Are Betting on RISC-V
The world’s biggest cloud providers are actively exploring RISC-V, and for good reason. As cloud computing demand skyrockets, companies like Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Alibaba, and others are looking for ways to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and gain greater control over their hardware.
RISC-V presents a unique opportunity to break free from reliance on traditional chip vendors, offering a level of flexibility and customization that x86 and ARM architectures struggle to match.
By leveraging open-source hardware, cloud companies can optimize their data centers for performance, power efficiency, and cost savings—all without being locked into expensive, long-term licensing agreements.
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
A Strategic Shift: Why Intel Is Betting Big on RISC-V
Intel’s $1 billion investment into RISC-V and open-chip architectures in 2022 was not just a financial move—it was a strategic pivot that signals a major shift in the semiconductor industry.
As a dominant player in x86 architecture, Intel has long relied on its proprietary ecosystem. But with the rise of open-source hardware, the company is now hedging its bets.
This investment is a clear indication that RISC-V is no longer just a niche technology. It’s a credible, high-potential alternative to ARM and x86, with Intel itself acknowledging the need to adapt to an open ecosystem.
Businesses that are still skeptical about RISC-V should take note: if a giant like Intel is making this move, the market is heading in that direction.
16. RISC-V-based microcontrollers now account for 15% of the global MCU market
Why RISC-V Microcontrollers Are Gaining Market Share
The microcontroller market has long been dominated by established players relying on proprietary architectures. But the rise of RISC-V is rewriting the rules. With RISC-V-based microcontrollers now making up 15% of the global market, businesses are taking notice.
The reason? Flexibility, cost savings, and performance efficiency. Traditional microcontrollers, built on x86 or ARM architectures, often come with licensing fees and rigid design constraints.
RISC-V removes those barriers, allowing companies to design and deploy exactly what they need—without paying for unnecessary features or locked-in vendor agreements.
This shift isn’t just a passing trend. It’s a sign that businesses are actively looking for alternatives that give them more control over their hardware and supply chains.
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
Why Western Digital’s Adoption of RISC-V Matters
When a tech giant like Western Digital commits to RISC-V at scale, the industry takes notice. With over 2 billion storage devices powered by RISC-V, this isn’t just an experiment—it’s a validation of RISC-V’s potential to disrupt traditional chip architectures.
Western Digital isn’t just using RISC-V because it’s open-source. The company sees it as a strategic advantage, allowing for greater customization, reduced costs, and improved performance in data storage solutions.
This decision signals to other businesses that RISC-V is mature enough for large-scale deployment, not just in storage but across a wide range of industries.
20. Alibaba’s T-Head division developed a high-performance RISC-V processor for AI workloads
Alibaba’s High-Performance RISC-V Processor is a Wake-Up Call for the AI Industry
Alibaba’s T-Head division has sent a clear message to the tech world: RISC-V is no longer just an experimental architecture—it’s a serious contender in high-performance AI workloads.
The development of a powerful RISC-V processor optimized for AI signals a shift away from traditional reliance on ARM and x86.
For businesses, this is a game-changing moment. AI and machine learning are among the most demanding computational workloads today, and the fact that Alibaba is building AI-specific RISC-V chips proves that open-source hardware is ready for the big leagues.
Companies working in AI, cloud computing, and edge processing need to start evaluating RISC-V as a viable alternative.
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
Why China Is Betting Big on RISC-V
China’s aggressive push toward semiconductor independence has made RISC-V a key strategic asset. With escalating trade restrictions and growing concerns over reliance on foreign technology, the Chinese government is investing heavily in homegrown alternatives—and RISC-V is at the center of this strategy.
Unlike ARM and x86, which are controlled by Western companies, RISC-V offers China the freedom to develop advanced processors without licensing restrictions or geopolitical risks. This is not just about technology—it’s about national security, economic sovereignty, and long-term control over critical supply chains.
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
A Global Movement Reshaping the Semiconductor Industry
RISC-V is not just another alternative chip architecture—it is a global movement. With more than 3,500 members spanning over 70 countries, the RISC-V International Foundation has built an ecosystem that transcends traditional geographic and corporate boundaries.
This level of worldwide collaboration is unprecedented in the semiconductor industry. Unlike closed ecosystems controlled by a few dominant players, RISC-V thrives on contributions from universities, startups, Fortune 500 companies, and government agencies.
The result? A dynamic and rapidly evolving technology stack that is shaping the future of computing.
For businesses, this means greater opportunities to innovate, collaborate, and gain a competitive edge in an industry that is shifting toward open-source hardware.
25. In 2023, over 50% of semiconductor startups included RISC-V in their product roadmaps
Why Over Half of Semiconductor Startups Are Betting on RISC-V
The semiconductor landscape is shifting, and the numbers prove it. In 2023, more than 50% of semiconductor startups included RISC-V in their product roadmaps. This is more than just a trend—it’s a fundamental change in how new chip companies are approaching design, development, and commercialization.
For decades, x86 and ARM dominated the market, but their high licensing costs, rigid ecosystems, and reliance on legacy architectures have made them less attractive to innovators.
RISC-V offers a different path—one that is open, flexible, and built for customization. For startups looking to disrupt the industry, RISC-V is the natural choice.
26. Major semiconductor companies like AMD and Samsung have joined the RISC-V International Foundation
Why Industry Giants Are Betting on RISC-V
When companies like AMD and Samsung make strategic moves, the industry takes notice.
Their decision to join the RISC-V International Foundation is more than just an endorsement—it’s a recognition that open-source architectures are shaping the future of semiconductors.
For years, x86 and ARM dominated computing, leaving little room for new players. But as businesses demand more flexibility, lower costs, and freedom from licensing restrictions, RISC-V has emerged as a serious contender.
The entrance of major chipmakers signals a shift in how companies are thinking about processor development, customization, and the future of computing.
27. By 2028, RISC-V is projected to capture 15% of the overall CPU market
Why This Projection Signals a Major Industry Shift
A 15% market share may not seem like a takeover, but in the semiconductor industry, it’s a massive disruption. For years, ARM and x86 dominated the CPU market, leaving little room for alternatives.
Now, RISC-V is emerging as a legitimate competitor—one that is reshaping the economics and innovation potential of the chip industry.
The projected growth of RISC-V by 2028 isn’t just about adoption numbers. It signals a deeper trend: businesses and governments are prioritizing open-source hardware, cost efficiency, and supply chain independence.
This shift will have long-term consequences for chipmakers, cloud providers, device manufacturers, and even software companies.
For businesses making technology decisions today, this is a crucial moment. The rise of RISC-V means new opportunities, new competition, and a new way to think about computing architectures.
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 is Losing Ground—And It’s Not Just a Minor Shift
The x86 processor market has dominated computing for decades, but that era is starting to fade. Forecasts suggest that x86 will lose 5% of its global market share by 2030 due to RISC-V’s rapid adoption.
While this may seem like a small percentage, it represents a major industry shift. Even a single-digit decline in market share can mean billions of dollars in lost revenue for legacy chipmakers.
This decline is not just about numbers—it’s about changing priorities in computing. Companies across industries are seeking more flexible, cost-effective, and energy-efficient alternatives, and RISC-V is emerging as the ideal solution.
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.
