EdgeQ, which aims to integrate AI and 5G in an IC for edge applications, has raised $51 million in total funding, including $38.5 million in a Series A round.

Investors include Threshold Ventures (formerly DFJ), Fusion Fund, Yahoo! co-founder Jerry Yang (AME Cloud Ventures), and an unannounced strategic customer.

EdgeQ converges 5G connectivity and AI compute onto an SoC for use at the nearest focal point of data at the edge.

The chip will allow enterprises (in manufacturing, construction, energy, automotive, warehousing, surveillance, telco and other verticals) to harness private networking for disruptive applications, intelligent services, and new business models.

As new sets of devices (robotics, drones, autonomous vehicles, etc.) enter the network, coupling reliable connectivity and AI compute at the edge becomes essential.

EdgeQ will deliver a converged 5G and AI silicon platform that is open and software programmable for both devices and edge infrastructure.

By introducing open programmability to the baseband, EdgeQ provides a new software-driven development model for OEMs and operators that can support existing cellular protocols, such as 4G, 5G and beyond.