TechStuff The Story: The UK’s Race for Second Place in the Chip Wars
Nov 19, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Nick McKeown, a leading tech expert and advisor to the UK Prime Minister’s Council for Science and Technology, shares insights on the UK's potential in the AI chip race. He emphasizes the strategic opportunity for the UK to lead in chip design rather than manufacturing, highlighting the need for investment in education and talent. Nick also outlines the massive market potential for AI chips, warning that failing to act could have dire consequences for the UK's tech future. A compelling vision for AI innovation!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
From Frustration To Return
- Nick left the UK in 1989 because he felt engineering had no future under Thatcher.
- He later returned, attracted by renewed optimism, ARIA, and growing UK tech strength.
AI Chips Are The Real Gold Mine
- AI chip designers capture disproportionate economic value compared with AI app makers.
- Nick McKeown estimates the AI chip market could be $700B by 2033 and is growing ~30% annually.
Scale Talent Fast
- Double the UK chip-design workforce within a decade by expanding degrees and bursaries.
- Recruit experienced overseas designers and ease visas to rapidly increase talent concentration.