ZTE Unveils OEX Supernode as US Nvidia Curbs Drive Domestic AI Infrastructure Push

According to Security Times, on July 18, ZTE unveiled its OEX supernode at the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference. The system features an orthogonal backplane-free architecture with a three-zero cable design, standardized protocols, and unified interfaces designed for compatibility with China's broad GPU ecosystem. The supernode supports multi-chip combinations and enables lossless switching between machines to improve cluster efficiency.

The launch comes as US export controls have constrained access to advanced Nvidia GPUs in China. Huawei has similarly introduced a domestic AI supernode cluster that does not rely on Nvidia's advanced chips, as Chinese technology firms seek alternatives amid supply uncertainties.