Chinese Rockchip expects 1H26 revenue and profit to rise on AIoT demand

Rockchip’s projected H1 2026 revenue surge signals AIoT chips are rapidly migrating from edge inference to on-device intelligence. Technically, its NPU+ISP heterogeneous architecture forces downstream module makers to redesign BOMs, boosting demand for domestic PMICs and RF front-ends while pressuring EDA vendors to optimize for ultra-low-power integration. On compliance, Rockchip’s reliance on mature nodes (28nm and above) insulates it from U.S. export controls targeting advanced semiconductor tools—turning geopolitical friction into a strategic advantage through deeper foundry partnerships with SMIC. Competitively, MediaTek and Allwinner may counter with cost-optimized AI co-processors targeting smart appliances and industrial vision. Over the next 12–24 months, as RISC-V gains traction in AIoT, Chinese firms with full-stack capabilities could set de facto standards in mid-to-low-end intelligent devices, creating a sustained architectural shift away from ARM in specific segments.