Key facts: Samsung accepts NVDA HBM terms; Banco Santander AI pact

Nvidia launched AI-powered PCs with partners like Dell and HP, starting at $2,599. The PCs use Grace and Blackwell chips, targeting Intel and AMD in the PC market. Nvidia aims to integrate hardware and software, expanding its CUDA environment. Success is uncertain due to high price and performance limitations.

ByteDance is reportedly close to a deal with MediaTek to buy custom AI chips, as US export rules restrict access to Nvidia's best chips. MediaTek, known for phone processors, aims to capture 15% of the custom AI chip market by 2027. ByteDance plans to diversify its chip suppliers, including Nvidia and Qualcomm, to ensure its AI infrastructure needs are met. ByteDance's AI chatbot, Doubao, processes over 180 trillion tokens daily, driving significant data center spending.

Nvidia's GTC conference in Berlin (Oct. 20-22) will feature CEO Jensen Huang announcing a $10 billion European AI investment plan. Key focuses include AI factories, Vera Rubin platform deployment, and partnerships with German companies like Siemens and Audi. Nvidia aims to expand its AI ecosystem in Europe, with potential government funding and startup investments.

Samsung Electronics plans to use TSMC's 3nm process for Nvidia's next-gen HBM chips, marking a first-time collaboration with its foundry rival. Nvidia requested Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron to use TSMC's process for base dies and 6th-gen DRAM tech for core dies. Samsung will maintain its in-house production model for other products.

Nvidia denied discontinuing its RTX 5090 graphics card, despite its disappearance from retailers and a 4x price surge on secondary markets. The company acknowledged supply constraints, with reports suggesting GB202 silicon may be prioritized for AI and professional products. Nvidia's Jeff Fisher confirmed continued shipments but did not deny allocation shifts. A $470,000 shipment of RTX 5090 cards went missing in Brazil, adding to supply concerns.

Mercedes-Benz and Nvidia are expanding their partnership to develop next-gen autonomous driving systems, combining Mercedes' MB.OS with Nvidia's Hyperion, Alpamayo Stack, and Halos. They aim for Level 4 autonomy and robo-limousines, with features expected in select German cities by late 2026. The collaboration focuses on safety, AI, and OTA updates, but specific details on launch timing, models, and investments were not disclosed.