Huawei HiSilicon Kirin X90 CPU Chip Earns Level II Security Certification, Set to Challenge Intel and AMD Dominance

Huawei’s chip design arm, HiSilicon, has achieved a significant milestone with its independently developed Kirin X90 CPUchip, which has officially passed rigorous testing by China’s National Information Security Evaluation Center and received the Level II Security and Reliability Certification. This accolade not only confirms that the Kirin X90 meets national standards for security and reliability but also signals Huawei’s bold push into the Pc chip market, poised to take on industry giants Intel and AMD.

Kirin X90: A Transition from Servers to PCs

The Kirin X90 has been listed among China’s Level II Security and Reliability processors, alongside server and data center chips. Industry sources suggest this chip is likely based on the ARMv9 architecture, building on the high-performance legacy of Huawei’s Kunpeng 920 server chip while being optimized for personal Computers. Rumors indicate it may utilize 7nm process technology from TSMC or SMIC, featuring a multi-core design with support for high-performance computing and AI acceleration.
Huawei plans to pair the Kirin X90 with its homegrown HarmonyOS operating system, creating a seamless PC ecosystem. Reports suggest the first HarmonyOS-powered laptop equipped with the Kirin X90 could debut in the second half of 2025. This aggressive timeline underscores Huawei’s efforts to overcome technology gaps caused by U.S. sanctions, reducing reliance on Intel, AMD, and Microsoft Windows.

Taking on Global Giants: A Dual Battle of Technology and Ecosystem

In the global PC chip market, Intel and AMD hold nearly 90% of the share, thanks to their x86 architecture and the Windows ecosystem. However, the rise of ARM architecture is reshaping the landscape. Since Apple introduced its M-series chips in 2020, low power consumption and high performance have redefined PC standards. The Kirin X90 could position Huawei as another formidable contender in the ARM camp.

While detailed performance specs for the Kirin X90 remain under wraps, analysts speculate its multi-core performance could rival Apple’s M3 or even Intel’s latest Core Ultra 7 series. Huawei’s expertise in AI and 5G technology may also give the Kirin X90 unique advantages, such as integrated AI acceleration units and advanced power management. However, it faces challenges in overcoming the software compatibility barriers of the x86 ecosystem and entrenched user habits, with HarmonyOS’s app ecosystem being a critical factor.

Manufacturing process technology is another key battleground. Intel and AMD have advanced to 3nm and even 2nm processes, while U.S. sanctions may limit Huawei to 7nm. If Huawei cannot close this gap, the Kirin X90’s performance and efficiency could face scrutiny. Still, Huawei’s deepening partnership with SMIC, which is Ramping up its advanced process R&D, offers hope for future upgrades.

A Milestone for China’s Chip Industry

The Kirin X90’s certification is not just a win for Huawei but a symbol of China’s growing self-reliance in semiconductors. Since its inclusion on the U.S. Entity List in 2019, Huawei has poured resources into chip design and manufacturing, delivering the Kirin 9000 series for smartphones and the Kunpeng series for servers. Now, the Kirin X90 expands its reach into PCs, spanning a wide range of applications.
Experts suggest this chip could reduce dependence on Western technology for China and BRICS nations in the computing sector. Paired with domestic operating systems and software, the Kirin X90 could provide secure, controllable solutions for government agencies, enterprises, and education markets. As global supply chains diversify, Huawei’s independent chip strategy may also attract international partners.

Market Reactions and Future Outlook

The announcement of the Kirin X90 has sparked heated discussions in the tech world. Optimistic analysts see it as a potential game-changer, believing Huawei could replicate its smartphone success in the PC market and pose a real threat to Intel and AMD. Skeptics, however, argue that breaking x86’s ecosystem dominance will take time, and the Kirin X90’s success hinges on how quickly HarmonyOS can build a robust app ecosystem.
Huawei has yet to disclose the Kirin X90’s full specifications, pricing, or launch details, but anticipation is building for its possible debut at global events like Computex or CES in 2025. When it arrives, the chip’s true capabilities will face the ultimate test in the global market. Regardless of the outcome, the Kirin X90 has already added a new chapter to China’s chipmaking story and injected fresh uncertainty into the PC market’s competitive landscape.

Conclusion: A Potential Rewriter of Tech Rules?

From smartphones to servers and now PCs, Huawei’s journey is marked by challenges and breakthroughs. Can the Kirin X90 emerge as a “dark horse” to shake Intel and AMD’s dominance? The answer may lie just around the corner. Stay tuned for the latest updates on the Huawei Kirin X90 and witness how Chinese technology is carving out a new role on the global stage.