Definition: neural processing unit

Also called an "intelligent processing unit" (IPU), "neural accelerator" and "neural engine," a neural processing unit (NPU) is a set of circuits or a separate chip designed for AI processing.

Unlike GPUs, which were adapted for AI, NPUs were designed for AI from the start. In addition, they are often designed to operate in desktop and mobile devices, not just data centers. See GPU.

For example, in 2016, Qualcomm introduced its Snapdragon Engine that enabled mobile devices to execute AI applications locally. For another non-GPU type of AI chip, see neuromorphic computing.