The chips will be customised to deal with workloads related to ByteDance's multiple business areas including video platforms, information and entertainment apps, the spokesperson added.

The social media giant has multiple job openings on its website for roles related to semiconductor design. The Beijing-headquartered firm's push into semiconductor design plays into two major themes -- an increasing focus from companies to create chips for specific purposes, as well as the Chinese government's push to become stronger in this fundamental technology.

ByteDance won't be manufacturing chips for sale to other companies it will just just make them for itself.