TLDR
- Meta is buying chip startup Rivos to strengthen its internal semiconductor capabilities for AI development
- Rivos designs chips using RISC-V architecture, an open-source alternative to Arm, Intel, and AMD designs
- The Santa Clara startup was backed by Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan and was valued at over $2 billion in August 2025
- Meta has been one of Rivos’ largest customers and had ongoing discussions about a potential acquisition
- The deal comes as Meta works to reduce reliance on expensive Nvidia AI chips through in-house development
Meta is acquiring chip startup Rivos as part of its effort to build semiconductor capabilities in-house. The deal was confirmed by a source familiar with the matter on Tuesday.
Rivos is based in Santa Clara, California. The company focuses on designing chips using RISC-V architecture.
RISC-V is an open-source alternative to chip architectures from Arm, Intel, and AMD. The startup is backed by Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan.
The financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. Meta and Rivos did not respond to requests for comment.
Meta has been one of Rivos’ biggest customers. The two companies had been in talks about a potential deal, according to a second source.
The Instagram and Facebook owner has spent heavily on AI chips from Nvidia. These chips are in high demand across the tech industry.
Expanding Internal Chip Development
Meta tested its first in-house chip for training AI systems in March 2025. The company is working to cut infrastructure costs related to advanced AI tools.
The Rivos acquisition fits into this strategy. Building chips internally could help Meta reduce expenses tied to buying third-party hardware.
Rivos was seeking new funding at a valuation above $2 billion. The Information reported this detail in August 2025.
RISC-V Architecture Focus
The startup’s work on RISC-V architecture makes it valuable for Meta’s plans. This open-source approach offers flexibility compared to proprietary designs.
Meta’s move follows a trend of large tech companies developing custom chips. Companies want more control over their AI hardware needs.
The acquisition gives Meta access to Rivos’ engineering team and technology. This could speed up Meta’s internal chip development timeline.
Meta’s AI spending has grown as the company invests in new features and products. Custom chips could provide cost savings over time.
The deal was first reported by Bloomberg News. Reuters confirmed the acquisition through sources on September 30, 2025.
