China Unveils “Brain-Like AI” That Promises 100× Faster Performance

Report by: Syed Taskin Ahmed

Beijing, September 2025 — Researchers in China have announced the development of a new artificial intelligence system described as the world’s first “brain-like” large language model (LLM). Dubbed SpikingBrain 1.0, the system is designed to mimic certain mechanisms of the human brain, offering faster, more energy-efficient performance compared to conventional AI models.

Inspired by the Brain

Unlike standard AI models that require massive computational resources and power-hungry GPUs, SpikingBrain 1.0 uses spiking neural networks and a concept known as localized attention.

In practice, this means the model only activates specific “neurons” when needed, rather than processing the entire network for every task.

The approach reduces energy consumption, lowers training data requirements (reportedly to less than 2% of what mainstream LLMs require), and accelerates computation.

Performance Claims

According to the research team at the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Automation, SpikingBrain 1.0 can run certain ultra-long sequence tasks 25 to 100 times faster than conventional AI systems.

The model has been trained on locally developed MetaX processors, bypassing the need for Nvidia GPUs and sidestepping U.S. export restrictions.

Applications and Potential

If validated, the technology could transform how AI systems handle:

Long documents and records, such as legal or scientific texts.

Resource-constrained environments, where power efficiency is critical.

Domestic AI ecosystems, particularly in countries seeking independence from foreign chipmakers.

Skepticism Remains

Experts caution that the research is still at an early stage. The work is currently available as a non-peer-reviewed paper on arXiv, and independent verification of its claims is pending.

Critics also argue that while the system is “brain-inspired,” it does not fully replicate the complexity of human cognition.

Why It Matters

With AI models growing larger and more expensive to operate, energy efficiency and hardware independence are becoming urgent global priorities. If China’s “brain-like AI” delivers on its promises, it could mark a major leap in the race for next-generation AI, reducing dependence on costly chips and reshaping the competitive landscape.