Chip Companies' 'Kill Switch' in Case of Chinese Invasion of Taiwan

SOURCE www.businessinsider.com
Two major chip companies can remotely activate a 'kill switch' on their advanced chipmaking machines in case of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan, amid rising tensions between the US and China. Taiwan's TSMC plays a crucial role in global semiconductor production.

Key Points

  • ASML, a top tech company, can activate a 'kill switch' on its chipmaking machines
  • Taiwan's TSMC, a major chip producer, heavily relies on these machines
  • US restrictions on China's chip imports under the Advanced Computing Chips Rule

Pros

  • Ability to disable chipmaking machines remotely in a crisis situation

Cons

  • Potential impact on global supply chains and economies in the event of a conflict