China targets top spot in supercomputing with fully domestic, CPU-only machine

China has introduced its new supercomputer, Lingsheng, which is entirely built from home-grown CPUs. This machine aims to achieve a performance of 2 exaflops, surpassing the current record of 1.8 exaflops held by El Capitan at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Unlike other exascale supercomputers that rely on GPUs, Lingsheng's design focuses on CPU technology, marking a significant shift in supercomputing architecture. This development is part of China's strategy to enhance its technological independence and reduce reliance on U.S. exports amidst ongoing trade tensions.