5G. Edge computing. Open architecture. Programmable functionality. Artificial Intelligence.

This isn't a game of chance, nor an attempt to manipulate search results, though a slight benefit is always welcome. Instead, these represent a convergence of technologies poised to become essential for the future of the Internet of Things, impacting sectors ranging from logistics to security.

One approach to integrating these technologies into individual devices involves simply combining readily available silicon chips into a single product. For example, a wireless communication chip could be paired with processing capabilities and AI functionality, resulting in a contemporary IoT device.

However, these devices frequently operate under significant limitations. Notably, power consumption is a major concern, often necessitating a single, highly energy-efficient chip rather than multiple components. Furthermore, size and the ability to remotely update the chip's programming present challenges. Consequently, there's a strong case to be made for a dedicated chip designed specifically for this emerging market, which, while still in its early stages, is projected to experience substantial growth in the coming years.

This assessment has led to action. EdgeQ, a previously unpublicized silicon startup, has now publicly revealed details of its ongoing chip development and announced the completion of a $38.5 million Series A funding round, spearheaded by Mohammad Islam of Threshold Ventures (previously DFJ). The company had previously secured a seed round led by Homan Yuen at Fusion Fund, bringing its total funding to $51 million. AME Cloud Ventures also contributed to the round, along with an unnamed strategic partner.

The strength of the EdgeQ team is particularly noteworthy at this stage. The company was founded by Vinay Ravuri, a former executive from Qualcomm with experience in mobile and data center chip projects during the 2018 Broadcom takeover attempt. After leaving Qualcomm that year, he collaborated with a team of seasoned engineers and leaders from Qualcomm, Intel, and Broadcom to develop the next generation of edge-focused chip technology. Ravuri explained, “We identified an opportunity to concentrate our efforts beyond the realm of mobile phones,” an area where Qualcomm held a dominant position with its 4G technologies.

EdgeQ’s development is ongoing, and the company is not yet prepared to disclose comprehensive product specifications. Nevertheless, Ravuri provided a general overview of the chip’s current status.

He used an analogy to illustrate the concept: “Think of it like finding the right temperature – not too cold, not too hot, but just right. That’s where EdgeQ fits in.”

This system-on-a-chip will integrate 5G connectivity with the processing power of a dedicated AI chip, all while maintaining a low power profile to conserve energy. Critically, the chips will be reprogrammable, enabling adjustments as product requirements evolve. “Achieving this level of integration and architectural innovation is what EdgeQ has accomplished,” Ravuri stated.

This systems-on-a-chip approach mirrors developments seen recently with Apple’s new M1 chip. By consolidating multiple silicon systems onto a single chip, performance can be enhanced while reducing energy consumption.

What potential applications exist for EdgeQ’s chips? Ravuri proposed several possibilities. A security camera, for instance, could utilize such a chip to coordinate with other cameras and process captured data. Drones and robots operating in confined spaces could leverage wireless communication for synchronization, computational processing, and precise location tracking. Numerous other applications are conceivable as the chip technology advances.

Homan Yuen of Fusion Fund commented that, “Given my background in semiconductors, I understand the challenges involved in these ventures and why venture capitalists often hesitate to invest in them. However, after meeting Vinay and his team, and considering their experience, I believed that if I were to invest in a chip company, it would be this one.”

This funding represents a significant step forward, attracting additional investors to the project. However, continued product development, manufacturing, and ultimately, customer adoption are still necessary. This milestone is encouraging, but substantial work remains to be done.

EdgeQ maintains offices in Santa Clara and San Diego, California, as well as Bangalore, India.