Nvidia’s GTC 2025 conference has kicked off in San Jose, and it’s packed with exciting updates. CEO Jensen Huang took the stage to share the latest in AI and computing tech, including the new Blackwell Ultra GPU series and the upcoming Rubin chip architecture. The event also shined a light on advancements in the automotive and robotics sectors.
Huang took a moment to reflect on the impact of AlexNet, the neural network that shook up deep learning back in 2012 with its impressive 84.7% accuracy in the ImageNET competition. This breakthrough was a game-changer for Nvidia, especially in the realm of autonomous vehicles, a topic Huang emphasized. “Seeing AlexNet for the first time was incredibly inspiring,” he shared.
During the keynote, Huang introduced two new AI systems: DGX Spark and DGX Station. These machines are built to prototype, refine, and execute AI models at various scales. “This is the computer of the age of AI,” he declared, showcasing NVIDIA’s comprehensive lineup for enterprises.
In collaboration news, Nvidia and General Motors are expanding their partnership to weave AI into manufacturing, enterprise operations, and automotive design. Huang explained, “AI for manufacturing can revolutionize production; AI for enterprise can transform how we design and simulate cars; and AI in the car itself is the future.” GM is aiming to boost its driver assistance systems and work towards fully autonomous vehicles.
Nvidia also unveiled the Nvidia Llama Nemotron Reasoning model, claiming it outpaces DeepSeek’s R1 in both accuracy and speed. Huang highlighted partnerships with companies like Accenture and Blackrock to harness this advanced reasoning model.
With a touch of humor, Huang referred to himself as the “chief revenue destroyer” while promoting the Blackwell architecture, calling it a step up from the 2022 Hopper chips, now considered outdated in this fast-paced tech world.
Among several new GPUs announced, the Vera Rubin series stands out with significant memory and a custom Nvidia-designed CPU. It’s set to release in 2026, with the Rubin Ultra following in 2027 with an innovative four-GPU package. The eagerly awaited Blackwell Ultra is expected in 2025.
Huang addressed Nvidia’s strategic direction, criticizing DeepSeek’s AI models for their hefty computing demands, which have affected Nvidia’s stock. However, he argued that efficient AI would ultimately drive GPU demand.
“AI is going through an inflection point,” Huang declared, reflecting on the evolution from Hopper GPUs to the current Blackwell series. He challenged misconceptions about AI scaling, emphasizing the rapid advancements in scaling techniques crucial to Nvidia’s business model.
The conference kicked off with a lively start as Huang playfully launched branded gear into the audience using a T-shirt cannon. Although DeepSeek sessions were absent, the event’s Chinese sessions highlight Nvidia’s ongoing international engagement.
