I can be mistaken, but it seems that FPGA work on these algorithms
CNv8 this is today's algorithm for monero?
The last month, the XMR Nethash jumped by 150~MH/s. This is certainly either private CNv8 FPGA bitstreams, or some weak ASICs. I would think its the first.
Definitely! though they have the flexibility to update the bitstream to "R" just like everyone else, even if it takes alittle longer they wont lag far behind!