AI custom chip (ASIC) specialist Semifive said on Monday it has signed a strategic memorandum of understanding with next-generation micro LED display driver chip (ASIC) specialist Sapien Semiconductor to strengthen microdisplay technology competitiveness and cooperate on developing CMOS backplane technology.

The two companies will jointly push forward the design and technical review of CMOS backplane technology, a core component of microdisplays. They will also cooperate on precision verification and simulations to improve the completeness of related technologies. They plan to provide technical advice for implementing microdisplay driver ICs and prepare joint measures to respond to global markets, continuing a partnership across technology and business.

The companies plan to combine their capabilities to meet market demand and bring forward the timing of commercialisation of next-generation technologies. Microdisplays are in the spotlight as essential for ultra-high resolution, low power and miniaturisation. As demand for CMOS backplane solutions rises sharply, the two firms aim to present to the market a solution that combines their technologies.

Semifive will support advanced chip development technologies based on its AI SoC design platform and its end-to-end solution that covers design through mass production. Sapien Semiconductor will lead implementation of CMOS backplanes by applying core technologies and know-how it has secured in microdisplay driver chip design.

Semifive CEO Myunghyun Cho (조명현) said, "By combining Sapien Semiconductor's expertise in microdisplay driver design with Semifive's custom chip design capabilities, we will optimise the next-generation display value chain and dramatically shorten product development time-to-market." He added, "Starting with this cooperation, we will maximise technological synergy between the two companies to redefine standards in the wearable market and jointly secure leadership in the global display market."

Sapien Semiconductor CEO Myunghee Lee (이명희) said, "At a time when commercialisation of AI wearable devices is accelerating in the global market and growth momentum in the related market is taking shape, a strategic partnership with Semifive is a key driving force to achieve the market's technical requirements one step ahead." She added, "We will successfully introduce a differentiated CMOS backplane solution and firmly build technological superiority in the future display market."