Qualcomm introduces Zeroth, Brain-inspired Neural Processing Units

The leader in smartphone chipsets, Qualcomm, is once again thinking ahead of the curve with its new project termed Zeroth. The new processor architecture is inspired by brains and is modeled on real life neurons. Zeroth is capable of learning and adapting based on feedback. This is very similar to how an actual human interprets and reacts.

In its demo video, Qualcomm shows how a robot built around the Zeroth processor adapts to its environment. It displays adaptive behavior in response to real life feedback instead of falling back on pre-coded decision parameters. According to Qualcomm, the technology has already advanced to allow for other companies to develop applications making use of its capabilities. Devices based on Zeroth will be able to see and process data like humans do. This has been achieved by creating mathematical models that accurately characterize biological neuron behavior when transmitting or receiving information. Spiking neural networks encode and transmit data efficiently for gathering environmental information and then processing, fusing them together. 

The video above should give you a good indication of what to expect from the technology. Qualcomm says that Zeroth based neural networks are already better and tracking data compared to algorithms. Expect to see this on a smartphone near you in another two to three years.