[jdyer9]

I'd argue it's about customisation, not as much about the process. A couple can't be made anywhere other than a factory, but we're seeing this exact thing happen more and more with custom chip design. Sure not hand made, but skewing towards custom. Previously, there were a handful of CPU's and that was it, but then GPUs came along, and now Tensor, Graviton, etc all with more specialized purpose. Maybe it won't be too long before people start building fabs in their basement, but I doubt it.

Also, custom PCB's are getting easier and easier, it seems like there's a ton of YouTube videos sponsored by and about doing custom PCB's for projects in 2024. Heck, I have an Air gradient in my house, and while it's not a custom CPU, it is a custom, relatively low volume PCB designed by (as far as I can tell) a single person, almost like an artist...

I'm not trying to add a lot to the conversation, just suggest that even chips are moving towards customisation and artisanship.

[ryao]

We design our own PCBs at work. They are still made on a factory assembly line. The assembly line is just more flexible to be able to accommodate various designs.

That said, I think you have a good perspective and it was refreshing to read.