Chinese robotics companies are increasingly exploring RISC-V-based system-on-chip solutions as alternatives to Nvidia’s Jetson modules. These firms aim to reduce per-unit costs and gain greater control over hardware customization, leveraging the open-source nature of RISC-V instruction sets. The move aligns with broader domestic initiatives to strengthen China’s semiconductor self-reliance and reduce dependency on foreign technology. Several prototypes incorporating RISC-V boards are already in development for next-generation humanoid robot designs.

For Nvidia, the potential shift among China’s leading humanoid robot manufacturers poses a direct challenge to its Jetson module sales, which have become a key growth driver in its edge computing portfolio. Nvidia’s robotics segment accounted for double-digit revenue growth last fiscal year, largely due to strong demand from automation and AI-driven applications. A sustained transition to RISC-V platforms could dampen future sales forecasts and pressure margins, given the lower licensing costs and flexibility of RISC-V designs. Nvidia may need to adjust its pricing or invest further in specialized software and hardware features to maintain its competitive edge in the robotics market.