STMicroelectronics has unveiled the STM32N6 MCU series, having the proprietary Neural-ART Accelerator NPU for embedded inference.
AI tasks like computer vision, audio processing, and sound analysis, previously too complex for small systems, can now be handled by the new series, enabling developers to create smart, efficient products that perform advanced functions in real-time.
The STM32N6 exemplifies the vision that relies on three pillars: AI at the edge, enhanced security, and cloud integration, which aims to improve real-time applications, reduce data transmission, and enhance security, enabling new applications and business models.
For STM32N6 microcontrollers, three main application scenarios have been found: to improve current uses, shift tasks from microprocessors to the more energy-efficient MCUs, and develop new applications.
The device's ability to combine hardware acceleration with memory optimization makes it an important product in the highly competitive MCU market.
ST’s investment in software tools demonstrates its dedication to enabling artificial intelligence at the edge.
The STM32N6 is a sophisticated microcontroller that lets real-time artificial intelligence processing happen at the edge supporting usage in industrial, consumer, and automotive sectors.
Second-generation accelerators are currently under development to be four times quicker, and a third-generation accelerator is predicted to produce a ten-fold performance boost to mirror continuous hardware acceleration improvements.
The STM32N6 and the Qualcomm collaboration represent significant strides in advancing artificial intelligence at the edge.
The market for artificial intelligence at the edge is predicted to rise dramatically over the next ten years.