Bendable non-silicon RISC-V CPU demoed running while wrapped around a pencil

Pragmatic Semiconductor has announced the publication of a research article in Nature journal detailing the development of a bendable, non-silicon RISC-V microprocessor. This microprocessor is notable for being the world's first fully functional 32-bit microprocessor that operates effectively while flexed. Additionally, it is the first flexible microprocessor to incorporate embedded machine learning capabilities. The research was conducted in collaboration with Qamcom and Harvard University. Emre Ozer, Senior Director of Processor Development at Pragmatic, highlighted that this innovation represents a significant advancement in flexible semiconductor technology. The introduction of an open-standard, non-silicon microprocessor is expected to democratize access to computing, facilitating new applications and reducing costs to below one dollar. This development addresses the limitations of traditional computing in areas such as fast-moving consumer goods, wearables, and single-use healthcare devices, which require minimal computational power. The combination of scalable, low-cost computing in a flexible format and the efficient production capabilities of Pragmatic's FlexIC Foundry® is anticipated to transform the landscape of flexible electronic systems.

- Pragmatic Semiconductor has developed the first bendable, non-silicon RISC-V microprocessor.

- The microprocessor is fully functional while flexed and includes embedded machine learning capabilities.

- The research was conducted in collaboration with Qamcom and Harvard University.

- This innovation aims to democratize access to computing and reduce costs for various applications.

- The development is expected to enhance the feasibility of flexible electronic systems in multiple industries.