Industry News

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is creating major ripples across the electronic components supply. Most notably, the conflict has disrupted the world’s access to critical semiconductor manufacturing materials.

Western Digital and Kioxia faced materials contamination at two jointly operated NAND factories in Japan. As a result, the flash memory market will likely see availability and pricing changes soon.

The semiconductor industry has started 2022 by facing new COVID-related manufacturing disruptions and component price increases. But this year also looks to be the start of the sector's recovery phase.

Qualcomm recently moved to break into the gaming market with its Snapdragon G3x Gen 1 mobile device SoC. The chipmaker is also working to diversify its supply chain to prevent future component shortages.

BMW and Stellantis recently signed deals with component manufacturers and foundry service providers to ensure they had a steady supply of microelectronics. Other major carmakers, including Ford, have adopted the same strategy to combat the global chip shortage.

Samsung announced it would establish a $17 billion cutting-edge chip fab in Taylor, Texas. Once operational in 2024, the plant will produce 5G, artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, and mobile device components.

Bosch revealed it would spend €400 million ($451 million) to expand its semiconductor manufacturing resources in three locations. The conglomerate is committed to producing silicon carbide (SiC) components at volume, which has big implications for the auto industry.

In October, Chinese component output dropped by several hundred million units, likely due to the impact of the global chip shortage. However, local leaders and manufacturers are working on expanding regional production capacity significantly.

Texas Instruments recently announced plans to establish a large 300mm chip complex in its home state. The firm wants to invest around $30 billion to establish four fabs on-site, with production to commence in 2025.

Sourcengine’s 2022 semiconductor industry predictions include component availability and pricing forecasts for the new year. It also features an examination of one of the biggest risks facing manufacturers in the post-coronavirus pandemic components supply chain.