Nvidia denies DeepSeek smuggled Blackwell chips, developing location tech

• Nvidia denies claims that China's DeepSeek is using 'smuggled Blackwell chips'.
• The denial follows a report alleging DeepSeek obtained restricted hardware despite US export controls.
• Nvidia states it has seen no credible evidence supporting the smuggling allegations.
• DeepSeek's R1 model, trained at a fraction of the cost, had previously raised questions about its hardware.
• Nvidia is developing location verification technology to monitor chip inventory and prevent illicit use.

Why It Matters: Nvidia's denial underscores ongoing US-China AI chip export control challenges.