We are Edge AI
Christophe Pouchoy, Manager of Echiquier Artificial Intelligence, La Financière de l’Échiquier │October 2024
With ever-increasing computing power, improved data security and confidentiality, and real-time, low-latency processing, Edge AI is pushing back the boundaries of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This cutting-edge technology allows AI to be deployed directly to users, bypassing the cloud, by embedding miniature AI systems into everyday technological devices. This is a trend that could also revolutionise business operations and represents one of the next major waves of AI innovation.
Edge AI, or local AI, is based on a simple idea: moving AI out of data centres, where it processes data with massive computing power, and placing it directly into smartphones, PCs, and even industrial assets. This means it will use locally generated data, at the edge of the network. Integrating and analysing data streams close to connected devices brings multiple advantages, notably by reducing reliance on data centres and eliminating associated latency, while saving resources. By processing data locally, Edge AI breaks free from today’s cloud-based AI constraints. Capable of operating without internet access or cloud infrastructure, Edge AI could also prove more reliable.
The integration of these mini-AIs into our tech devices enhances the effectiveness of personal assistants. Apple has led the charge in bringing this innovation to the general public with its Apple Intelligence strategy, which integrates generative AI features into Siri. We believe the entire tech hardware segment driven by Edge AI will see strong growth over the next three years. Investor expectations are high, both in terms of increasing volumes for mobile devices and the rising DRAM content[1] – responsible for managing memory – in these products.
Developing these features requires greater computing power, more RAM, and therefore more powerful semiconductors. The proliferation of Edge AI in semiconductors, for example, could generate an average annual growth rate of 25% for the sector between 2023 and 2027[2].
Building the Edge AI ecosystem is fostering innovation across the board, while reinventing business models and ways of working. These technological innovations also unlock countless possibilities for industrial and robotic applications. Edge AI will benefit many sectors, from robot-assisted surgery to autonomous cars and trucks, robotaxis and collaborative robots.
As a catalyst for intelligence, Edge AI is opening up new horizons. Its powerful potential could herald a paradigm shift as well as a revolution we are part of – one that we believe will impact the entire economy.