Summary of Key Highlights from the 2026 Munich Shanghai Electronics Show
The 2026 Munich Shanghai Electronics Show revealed crucial transformation signals within the semiconductor industry: AI is no longer solely a domain exclusive to GPU manufacturers; it has permeated the entire chip sector, from MCUs to automotive SoCs. The competitive landscape has shifted from a focus on individual device performance to system-level integration tailored to specific use cases. Power supplies have gained prominence due to the high power consumption of AI servers. The market for humanoid robots holds great potential, though commercialization still requires significant breakthroughs. Automotive electronics have entered a new phase defined by AI, with industrial Ethernet APLs gradually replacing traditional communication methods. Domestic chips have moved beyond merely meeting performance standards and are now advancing towards providing comprehensive system solutions and localized services.
1. AI Is No Longer Just GPU’s Domain: The Entire Chip Industry Is Incorporating AI
In the past, AI was primarily a story for GPU manufacturers, such as NVIDIA, which reaped substantial profits from AI-related chips. However, nowadays, nearly all chip companies are adding AI capabilities to their products:
- Small MCUs (microcontrol units) are integrating NPU (neural processing units) to perform simple intelligent tasks.
- Image sensors (ISPs) combine visual AI to automatically optimize photo-taking scenarios.
- Automotive SoCs support Transformer models, enabling cars to better understand road conditions.
- Even battery management systems (BMSs) utilize AI for predictive maintenance to extend battery life.
This indicates that chips are no longer just about how fast they can operate; the focus is on their ability to solve real-world problems using AI, making appliances smarter and vehicles safer.
2. Power Supplies Suddenly Become a Spotlight: The Rise of Energy-Efficient Technologies
Power supplies were once considered background players, but this year’s show highlighted the importance of efficient technologies like SiC (silicon carbide) and GaN (gallium nitride), as well as digital power management systems for AI servers. AI servers consume massive amounts of energy, with single cabinets requiring increasingly higher power levels (e.g., from 10 kW to several tens of kW). Traditional 48V power supply architectures are no longer sufficient; 800V or even higher voltages are becoming the new standard. Manufacturers are promoting end-to-end solutions that deliver power efficiently and reliably directly to the chips.
3. The Hot Market for Humanoid Robots: Chips Play a Crucial Role
Humanoid robots were a major topic at the show. Although current models can only walk and dance and have not yet entered households or factories, their market potential is enormous. Yole predicts that the global humanoid robot market will exceed $51 billion by 2035, with a annual growth rate of 56%. Half of the world’s top 60 robotics companies are from China. Chips are essential for bringing robots from the laboratory to real-world applications, as they enable specialized vision processing and motion control. Chip manufacturers need to cater to Chinese customers, who constitute a significant market segment.
4. Automotive Electronics Enter a New Phase Defined by AI
Some claim that the automotive electronics industry has reached saturation, but chip manufacturers remain enthusiastic:
- 8-way radar systems (promoted by companies like Infineon and TI) offer more accurate environmental detection.
- The era of “software-defined radar” has begun: Radar performance can now be enhanced through software updates, weakening the hardware advantages of traditional automotive component suppliers and giving semiconductor companies more influence.
- NXP proposes an “AI-defined car” concept where AI enables vehicles to learn driving habits, automatically adjust temperature settings, and make critical decisions (e.g., emergency braking).
Domestic chips are also catching up, no longer just meeting basic performance requirements but offering comprehensive system solutions that can compete with international giants.
5. The Rise of Industrial Ethernet APLs: Replacing Traditional Communication Methods
In the industrial sector, the way devices communicate is changing. Ethernet APLs are replacing the decades-old 4–20mA signal transmission methods. Why? APLs offer higher bandwidth and better real-time performance, while also allowing for the reuse of existing cables, reducing costs. Companies like BASF have already implemented APLs in their factories in Zhanjiang, and leading manufacturers (such as Beckhoff) are promoting related equipment. In the next 5–10 years, APLs and 4–20mA will coexist, but new installations will favor APLs, with older facilities gradually upgrading.
Conclusion
The show demonstrates that the semiconductor industry is shifting from selling individual chips to providing system solutions, with AI as the driving force behind these changes. Whether it’s power supplies, robotics, or automotive electronics, all sectors rely on AI and system integration. Domestic chips have evolved from simply meeting basic requirements to becoming reliable and competitive alternatives to international players. These developments will impact the appliances we use, the cars we drive, and even the equipment in factories worldwide.