SemiconductorsPrices will not be lowered for other sectors despite weak smartphone, auto marketsChina's SMIC says the AI investment boom is pushing up demand for a large number of peripheral chips. © ReutersLAULY LI and CHENG TING-FANGAugust 14, 2026 11:24 JSTTAIPEI -- Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp., China's top contract chipmaker, says the artificial intelligence boom is driving massive demand for peripheral AI chips, and that there is "no chance" the company will lower its prices despite weaknesses in the smartphone and automotive markets.