Startup Pragmatic Semiconductor has introduced a 32-bit processor that stands out by being a model completely flexibleand at a really low production cost, as the price per unit is less than one dollar. It’s a truly impressive feat, although, as you might imagine, its complexity isn’t on par with other conventional processors.

This 32-bit processor was named Flex-RV. It’s no coincidence, it’s a nod to the architecture it uses, RISC-V. To achieve this flexible termination, Pragmatic Semiconductor’s development team ditched silicon entirely and used it zinc oxide indium gallium, semiconductor which is also known as IGZO.

Already make this processor no need to use encapsulation and packaging complex and expensive, which happens with classic silicon-based processors. Flex-RV can be printed directly onto plastic substrates at low temperatures and has its own connection interface that plugs directly into a dedicated port.

Looking at its internal configuration, we see that it has two coresand comes up with a solution for accelerate deep learning. This specialized unit is what allows you to work with artificial intelligence, although as you might imagine, its performance level is very modest.

In total, the Flex-RV has 12,600 logic gates and can operate at a frequency of 60 kHz, which corresponds to 0.06 MHz. Its consumption is only 6mW, which means it is a very efficient solution and can be easily integrated into compact devices and new formats such as wearables, robots and even brain implants.

Its simple design was the key to keeping production costs very low, although in this sense we must also emphasize the role it plays RISC-V instructionsbecause they are from free use of Flex-RV and do not involve payment of any type of license. It will also avoid any type of problems in the short, medium or long term due to royalty issues.

In the first preview of this CPU, it was possible to confirm that the processor can be bent up to a radius of 5 mm no problem. Its creators have confirmed that it’s a fully programmable all-in-one solution, and it goes without saying that it’s full of potential, though it’s still unclear when it will leave the lab and start having real-world applications.