NPU
An NPU is a semiconductor designed specifically for AI computation and is important for on-device AI in smartphones and laptops.
NPU (Neural Processing Unit) is a processor designed to specialize in artificial neural network calculations. If the CPU is an all-rounder who is good at many things, the NPU can be compared to a professional technician who performs only one task, AI calculation, very quickly and while consuming less electricity.
It developed from the demand to run AI functions such as photo retouching, voice recognition, and real-time translation in smartphones without burdening the battery. Recently, it is being installed as standard in laptops under the name of AI PC, and it serves as a hardware foundation to support the spread of on-device AI.
NPU performance is usually promoted as a computing power number called TOPS, but a larger number does not necessarily mean that the actual AI function is proportionally better. Other factors such as software support and memory also have a significant impact.
✅ Why it matters
- It processes AI calculations with low power and is suitable for battery devices
- AI can be run inside the device, which is advantageous for privacy protection and offline use
- It is the foundation for the spread of AI functions to smartphones, laptops, and home appliances
⚠️ Limits and debates
- It is difficult to use for general-purpose calculations and cannot replace CPU and GPU
- Specifications are different for each manufacturer, so securing software compatibility is a challenge
- TOPS numerical marketing sometimes deviates from actual performance