GlobalFoundries (GF) and Silicon Labs are deepening their collaboration to accelerate development of next-generation low-power wireless technologies while expanding domestic semiconductor manufacturing. Under the new agreement, Silicon Labs’ future wireless system-on-chips (SoCs) will be produced at GF’s advanced fabrication facility in Malta, New York, using the foundry’s new 40nm Ultra Low Power (40ULP-ESF3) platform. This marks the first U.S. deployment of this process technology, strengthening domestic supply chain resilience and semiconductor self-sufficiency.
The 40ULP-ESF3 platform, introduced at GF’s Global Technology Summit earlier this year, integrates embedded SuperFlash memory and ultra-low standby leakage devices. It enables high-performance, secure, and energy-efficient operation—ideal for battery-powered IoT edge applications that demand continuous connectivity, strong data protection, and long lifespan. The collaboration supports the production of Silicon Labs’ Series 2 products and targets fast-growing markets in smart home, industrial automation, and connected cities.
Matt Johnson, President and CEO of Silicon Labs, said, “We’re excited to deepen our strong partnership with GlobalFoundries to accelerate U.S.-based innovation in wireless connectivity. This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to innovation and U.S. manufacturing leadership.” Tim Breen, CEO of GlobalFoundries, added, “Bringing this differentiated low-power technology to our New York fab expands our ability to deliver secure, onshore semiconductor manufacturing.”
• Silicon Labs SoCs to be manufactured on GF’s 40nm Ultra Low Power (40ULP-ESF3) platform
• Technology integrates embedded SuperFlash memory for secure, energy-efficient IoT edge designs
• First use of this process in the U.S. at GF’s Malta, NY fab
• Focus on consumer and industrial IoT applications requiring always-on wireless connectivity
• Production ramp expected over the next several years
🌐 Analysis: This partnership reinforces GlobalFoundries’ growing role in U.S.-based specialty semiconductor manufacturing and aligns with national efforts to secure the chip supply chain under the CHIPS and Science Act. For Silicon Labs, it expands domestic sourcing options and provides manufacturing headroom as demand for low-power wireless SoCs grows across smart home and industrial IoT markets—segments where it competes with Nordic Semiconductor, NXP, and Qualcomm.
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