Neural Processing Unit

Source– This post on Neural Processing Unit has been created based on the article “NPU: What is it and why is it gaining importance in semiconductor industry” published in “The Business Standard” on 10 May 2024.

Why in the news?

Recently, Apple launched the M4 chip with the iPad Pro. Its key feature includes a 16-core Neural Engine which is equivalent to an NPU.

About Neural Processing Unit

1. About NPU: A Neural Processing Unit is a specialized processor designed to accelerate neural network processes. These neural networks are fundamental to machine learning algorithms for data processing. They are part of the semiconductors specifically designed for machine learning operations, which enables AI features such as generating text or images.

2. Applications:

i) NPUs excel in AI-related tasks like speech recognition, natural language processing, and image or video editing processes such as object detection.

ii) They enable efficient handling of complex AI operations, enhancing performance in consumer gadgets like smartphones, laptops, and tablets.

iii) NPUs play a crucial role in efficiently deploying AI-powered applications directly on hardware.

Differences Between NPU, CPU, and GPU

About CPU (Central Processing Unit): It processes instructions one at a time and ideal for tasks requiring sequential data processing. It is best for general computing, applications, and systems operations.

About GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): It is capable of multiple calculations simultaneously, optimized for graphics and complex computations. It focuses on graphic rendering and resolution upscaling and are also used in AI development stages.

About NPU (Neural Processing Unit): It is similar to GPUs but exclusively optimized for neural network and AI computations. It is more efficient and is less power-consuming for AI tasks, and running refined AI models on devices.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology