CANN

Huawei’s CloudMatrix 384, powered by Ascend 910C processors and the MindSpore framework, challenges Nvidia’s dominance in AI acceleration. Adopting Huawei’s ecosystem requires significant adaptation, including transitioning from PyTorch/TensorFlow to MindSpore and utilizing the CANN software stack. ModelArts, Huawei’s AI platform, supports the entire development lifecycle. While lacking the maturity of Nvidia’s ecosystem, Huawei aims to offer a viable alternative, reducing reliance on US-based technology. Transitioning requires personnel training and code re-architecting, but Huawei provides resources to facilitate the process.

At Huawei Connect 2025, Huawei detailed its plan to open-source its AI software stack by year-end, including CANN, the Mind series, and OpenPangu models. This move aims to address developer challenges and foster collaboration. CANN will offer open interfaces for its compiler, while the Mind series development environment commits to full open-source. Huawei also plans to open-source its UB OS Component for flexible OS integration and prioritize compatibility with PyTorch and vLLM. The success hinges on initial release quality, community support, and clear governance.