China Blocks Intel, AMD Chips and Microsoft’s Windows on Government Devices

Isaiah Richard, Tech Times 24 March 2024, 10:03 pm

In a massive turn of events, China is now blocking the use of Intel and AMD's chips for its government devices, and the country did not stop there as it also blocks the use of Microsoft's Windows operating systems.

This move would have China rely on its local technology options to use for its government's needs, going against the United States sanctions on chip exports to the country.

China is going local for its government's computers and other technologies, with the company known for developing these kinds of tech amidst the feud.

China Blocks Intel, AMD Chips, and Microsoft's Windows

China Chips — (Photo: STR/AFP via Getty Images)

According to a Financial Times report (via Reuters), China introduced new guidelines that effectively block US processors from their use on Chinese government devices. This includes Intel and AMD's chips, which are known for being global standards, with China also relying on the tech for a long time.

It also includes the block against Microsoft's Windows operating systems and other foreign database software for China's government use.

The Chinese government has touted the use of "safe and reliable" technology from local developers and tech companies, favoring them over the US-designed technologies.

It parallels the United States' aspirations to focus on domestic chips and other tech development, reducing its reliance on China via 2022's CHIPS and Science Act.

Government Devices to Use Chinese Tech

As per the report, China is urging the use of domestic developments for its government's needs, and back in December 2023, it released three separate lists of CPUs, centralized databases, and operating systems made by Chinese companies.

The mainland claims that these technologies have been "safe and reliable" for three years since their publication date, foregoing their reliance on US-made technologies.

China and US Chip Fiasco

President Joe Biden's export restrictions against China for 14-nanometer and below chips in October 2022 is a monumental case against the East Asian country, forcing it to be aggressive in its quest to develop the tech. Last year, the House detailed how Chinese companies are acquiring US chipmaking equipment to develop its advanced semiconductors.

Earlier this year, a massive move against China escalated, particularly with its import restrictions against SMIC after it developed the 5nm chipset for the Huawei Mate 60 Pro, a company known for suffering from US sanctions.

Moreover, back in January, China's Commerce Minister Wang Wentao confronted the United States and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo about the US chip export restrictions, significantly increasing global tensions.

Now, the tables are turning for US companies amidst rising tensions against China about chip and technology access for the Asian country.

China took it upon itself to support local tech, touting them as the "safe and reliable" options for government devices, effectively blocking the likes of Intel and AMD chips, as well as Microsoft's Windows OS is no longer available for its operations soon.