IoT and embedded use cases are increasingly demanding more compute performance and power optimization. The large volume of complex sensor data requires advanced AI-enabled edge compute solutions powered by robust, cost-effective, and efficient processors.
RISC-V is the AI-native ISA that addresses the challenges of the IoT and embedded markets
Powering ultra-efficient MCUs to high-performance application processors, RISC-V puts users in control of their technology roadmap. All supported by a resilient supply chain and a comprehensive ecosystem of competitive providers.
Video: RISC-V Solutions for Embedded Applications – John Ronco, SiFive
As the AI-Native ISA RISC-V is ideally suited to the IoT and Embedded segment, which requires ever-increasing compute performance. John Ronco, SVP of Product for SiFive, speaking at Embedded World 2025, gives his view on why he believes RISC-V is the right choice for the embedded use cases.
The RISC-V ISA is a flexible and customizable that addresses the specific needs of IOT & Embedded use cases
Customizable
RISC-V is uniquely customizable through extensions, allowing for dedicated implementations for specific use cases such as audio and speech.
AI Native
Built for vectorization, the RISC-V ISA provides custom instructions and domain-specific acceleration to support IoT AI compute from edge inference to data center transformer workloads.
Enhanced Security
RISC-V custom extensions permit enhanced security to improve the integrity of edge AI data and inference.
Broad Addressable Market
Standardization of RISC-V application processor profiles simplifies compatibility issues to widen the range of addressable use-cases and maximise development ROI.
RISC-V helps IOT & Embedded providers compete in a cost and resource-sensitive market
Single Architecture
A single ISA across the stack from sensor MCUs to edge application processors simplifies development and the reuse of expertise and tools, reducing cost and accelerating Time to Market.
Right Sized
RISC-V permits right-sized code-efficient processors, reducing overspend and simplifying performance vs power consumption trade-off decisions.
No Fee ISA
Incurs no ISA-specific fees, so it can be cost-effective for high-volume and long lifespan processors often deployed in the IoT/Embedded segment.
Cost-Effective Integration
Customizable ISA enables higher levels of integration on-chip and domain-specific subsystems at reduced cost.
A growing RISC-V ecosystem enables a wider choice of vendors and fosters a more competitive, resilient supply chain
Vendor Choice
Opens up a marketplace traditionally served by a small number of providers, enhancing user choice and preventing vendor lock-in.
Comprehensive Support
RISC-V’s expanding ecosystem of toolchain and design service support providers offers a comprehensive and competitive alternative to incumbent options.
Technology Sovereignty
RISC-V promotes technology sovereignty, allowing users control over their roadmap without reliance on specific commercial or geographical entities.
Minimize Supply Chain Risk
In providing competitive alternatives to processors with constrained inventories, RISC-V levels the playing field for operators of all sizes and budgets.
Recent IoT and Embedded Stories on the RISC-V Blog
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