Peking University unveils 3D design tool to power Huawei’s chip ambitions

Researchers at Peking University have claimed a breakthrough in microchip design software, purportedly offering critical support to Huawei Technologies as the tech giant attempts to build cutting-edge semiconductors despite US-led trade restrictions.The innovation, unveiled on Tuesday, comes in the form of a prototype tool for electronic design automation (EDA), according to an announcement by the university’s School of Integrated Circuits. EDA is the highly specialised software that engineers use to design and test microchips before they are manufactured.Developing a domestic alternative has become a top priority for Beijing because the global EDA market is dominated by Western players such as Synopsys and Cadence Design Systems.