Semicon Briefing

The merger between Skyworks and Qorvo has been completed; management is targeting over $500 million in synergies and a combined gross margin of 50–55%. Consolidation in the RF chip segment reduces competition and strengthens negotiating power against Apple and other major customers.

ASML and TSMC have launched a joint initiative to develop 12-inch photomasks for high-NA EUV – pilot line by 2031, series production planned from 2033. This step is crucial for high-NA scalability and addresses a key cost lever for the next generation of chips.

Prediction markets see Intel's Q3 foundry revenue at 72% probability above $6 billion, while data center & AI revenue above $6.5 billion is rated at 64%. The figures signal that Intel's foundry turnaround is gaining momentum – an important test for the credibility of Intel's 18A strategy.

Navitas Semiconductor completed the merger with Claros Inc. on October 6, 2026 and announces the 'Navitas 2.0' strategy. The deal marks a reorientation of the GaN/SiC specialist and could strengthen its competitive position in the rapidly growing market for power semiconductors for AI data centers.

Quantum computing company IonQ acquires a cybersecurity firm for up to $1.3 billion, combining quantum hardware with security software. The unusual combination signals that quantum players are increasingly betting on vertically integrated solutions to convince capital markets.

An analysis shows that US export controls have unintentionally strengthened China's chip sector: Beijing has massively invested in an independent semiconductor ecosystem and now reports technological breakthroughs. This fundamentally questions the effectiveness of Western export control strategy and increases pressure for further tightening.