News: Microelectronics
10 April 2025
IQE and X-FAB sign JDA to develop European-based GaN power outsourced manufacturing platform
Epiwafer and substrate maker IQE plc of Cardiff, Wales, UK and analog/mixed-signal and specialty foundry X-FAB Silicon Foundries SE of Tessenderlo, Belgium have announced a joint development agreement (JDA) to create a European-based gallium nitride (GaN) power device platform solution.
With an initial two-year scope of work, IQE and X-FAB will collaborate to develop a 650V GaN device. The agreement will leverage IQE’s GaN epitaxy design and process expertise along with X-FAB’s proven technology development and device fabrication capabilities to offer an optimized technology-substrate combination for automotive, data-center and consumer applications.
The collaboration will provide fabless semiconductor companies with an off-the-shelf GaN platform, accelerating their innovation cycles and time-to-market. The technology will also serve as a foundation for future product development extending beyond 650V to address the growing market demand for power electronics.
Joining forces with X-FAB to develop a GaN power foundry solution in Europe will provide “outsourced optionality for our fabless customers,” says IQE’s interim CEO & chief financial officer Jutta Meier. “Building on our GaN epitaxy expertise and recent investment in additional GaN reactor capacity, this agreement aligns with our GaN diversification strategy, expands our customer reach and accelerates time-to-market for GaN power applications,” she adds.
“By combining our long-standing expertise in device fabrication and design enablement with IQE’s epitaxy leadership, we are creating a unique, turnkey GaN power platform,” says X-FAB’s chief technology officer Jörg Doblaski. “In addition to our existing GaN technology, this collaboration provides a compelling alternative to existing supply chain models and strengthens Europe’s position in next-generation power semiconductor technology.”
IQE raises full-year 2024 revenue and adjusted EBITDA guidance
