NXP Announces Next-Generation i.MX 9 Series with Enhanced Power Efficiency
Advanced Architecture for Edge Intelligence
NXP Semiconductors has announced the i.MX 9 series of applications processors, designed to address the growing demand for power-efficient edge AI processing in automotive, industrial, and IoT applications. The new processor family features an innovative architecture combining ARM Cortex-A and Cortex-M cores with dedicated neural processing capabilities.
Key Features and Specifications
The i.MX 9 series introduces several technological advancements that set new standards for edge processing:
- Enhanced AI Performance: Dedicated neural processing unit (NPU) delivering up to 5.0 TOPS of AI performance while maintaining low power consumption
- Efficient Architecture: Based on ARM Cortex-A55 cores running up to 1.7 GHz combined with ARM Cortex-M33 real-time cores
- Advanced Power Management: Dynamic voltage and frequency scaling with multiple power islands for optimal efficiency
- Integrated Security: Hardware security module with secure boot and cryptographic accelerators
- Comprehensive Connectivity: Integrated Ethernet AVB/TSN, CAN-FD, and PCIe interfaces
Target Applications and Market Impact
The i.MX 9 series addresses key market needs across multiple segments:
Automotive: The processors are designed to support automotive functional safety requirements up to ASIL B, making them suitable for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), digital cockpits, and gateway applications. The enhanced AI capabilities enable real-time processing for safety-critical functions.
Industrial: For industrial applications, the i.MX 9 series offers deterministic real-time processing capabilities combined with AI features for predictive maintenance, quality control, and process optimization.
IoT Edge: The power-efficient design makes these processors ideal for always-on IoT applications, such as smart city infrastructure, retail analytics devices, and industrial sensor nodes.
Availability and Ecosystem Support
According to NXP, the i.MX 95 family will be available for sampling in Q2 2025, with mass production expected by Q4 2025. The company is also releasing comprehensive development tools and software support including:
- MCUXpresso SDK with optimized AI libraries
- Liquidware development boards for rapid prototyping
- Comprehensive Yocto Project support for Linux implementations
- Free-of-charge development tools for simplified onboarding
As an authorized NXP distributor, LiTong Group will offer early access to qualified customers along with technical support and competitive pricing for the i.MX 9 series.
Early Access Program
LiTong is offering an early access program for the i.MX 9 series, including:
- Pre-production sample access for qualified customers
- Technical guidance and reference designs
- Software development support with Yocto and MCUXpresso SDK
- Design-in support from our NXP-certified FAEs
Competitive Advantages
Compared to competing solutions, the i.MX 9 series offers distinct advantages:
- Better power efficiency per TOPS of AI performance
- Enhanced functional safety features for automotive applications
- Superior real-time processing capabilities with Cortex-M cores
- Comprehensive security features integrated in hardware
- Long-term availability commitment with 10+ year lifecycle
Industry Reactions
"NXP's i.MX 9 series represents a significant advancement in edge AI processing capabilities," said Dr. Sarah Chen, Principal Analyst at TechInsights. "The combination of high AI performance with excellent power efficiency addresses critical needs in both automotive and industrial IoT markets."
Early adopters in the automotive sector have praised the platform's safety features, with Tesla supplier Advanced Automotive Components noting the i.MX 9 series as a "viable solution for next-generation digital cockpits requiring both high performance and functional safety compliance."