The News: Last week at the GF Summit, Globalfoundries, a leading semiconductor manufacturer announced new solutions for 5G and Wi-Fi 6/6e enabled devices. The new solutions will enable stronger 5G connections, 5G mmWave, and stronger Wi-Fi connections as well. Read the full press release here.
GlobalFoundries Announces New Solutions for 5G and Wi-Fi 6/6e Enabled Devices
Analyst Take: It’s not hyperbolic to say that semiconductors are becoming the backbone of our global economy. They are in devices in every industry, every office, every home, and nearly every car. And if the last 18 months have proven anything, it’s that semiconductors are essential pieces of technology — and a global chip shortage is no fun to navigate
Supply chain issues aside (momentarily), GlobalFoundries’ announcement last week of new solutions for 5G and Wi-Fi 6/6e enabled devices is exciting, as it will undoubtedly accelerate the next generation of innovation and continue to solidify the importance of the semiconductor in our daily lives.
Putting $6 Billion to Work
In June, GlobalFoundries pledged a $6 billion dollar investment to expand fabs across the globe and increase production in order to keep up with semiconductor demand. The latest announcement will put that $6 billion to work to produce new chips for a myriad of devices including 5G phones, data centers, and cars. New solutions and features include:
- GF RF-SOI sub 6GHz Solutions that will provide a stronger 5G connection for more device usage on a single charge.
- GF FDX-RF Solutions that will enable the next generation of 5G mmWave devices.
- GF Wi-Fi Solutions with enhanced RF and Power Amplifier functionality for stronger Wi-Fi connections.
- GF Display Solutions to enable variable refresh on OLED displays for more immersive gaming.
- GF Audio Solutions that will enable crystal clear audio for playback and talk.
- GF Imaging Solutions with new features that allow stacked CMOS image sensors with >200 Mpixels of resolution.
Solidifying GlobalFoundries’ Commitment to Innovation
It’s clear that GlobalFoundries is committed to driving innovation forward in the semiconductor industry with these latest announcements, but it’s not just the technology that we should be paying attention to here. It’s rumored that GlobalFoundries will publicize the details of its IPO filing in October with the intention of going public by the end of the year or early next year. The new solutions for 5G and Wi-Fi 6/6e enable devices will drive revenue up which could positively impact the valuation of the company ahead of its IPO. And then there’s the whole Intel thing. It will be interesting to watch how this plays out over the months ahead.
Disclosure: Futurum Research is a research and advisory firm that engages or has engaged in research, analysis, and advisory services with many technology companies, including those mentioned in this article. The author does not hold any equity positions with any company mentioned in this article.
Other Insights from Futurum Research:
GlobalFoundries files for an IPO, But Don’t Rule Intel Out Just Yet
More on 5G RFFE and Why It’s Part of the 5G Puzzle
Image Credit: TechRepublic
Author Information
Shelly Kramer is a serial entrepreneur with a technology-centric focus. She has worked alongside some of the world’s largest brands to embrace disruption and spur innovation, understand and address the realities of the connected customer, and help navigate the process of digital transformation.
