News: Microelectronics
29 January 2026
VIS licenses TSMC’s 650V and 80V GaN technology
Specialty IC foundry service provider Vanguard International Semiconductor Corp (VIS) of Hsinchu Science Park, Taiwan has signed a technology licensing agreement with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd (TSMC) for high-voltage (650V) and low-voltage (80V) gallium nitride (GaN) technologies. This will help VIS to accelerate the development and expansion of next‑generation GaN power technologies for applications such as data centers, automotive electronics, industrial control, and energy management, which are key areas that demand high‑efficiency power conversion.
Through the licensing agreement, VIS will expand its GaN-on-Si technology into high-voltage applications and offer a comprehensive GaN-on-Si platform for power applications. Combined with its existing GaN-on-QST technology platform, the firm will become the only foundry in the world capable of offering power GaN technologies on both silicon and QST substrates, it is reckoned. VIS will support complete product solutions covering low voltage (<200V), high voltage (650V) and ultra-high voltage (1200V), strengthening its technology roadmap for high-efficiency power conversion.
VIS says that it is building a comprehensive portfolio of power GaN technologies ranging from 15V to 1200V, providing customers with more flexible and competitive options. Leveraging the TSMC technology license, VIS aims to develop a power GaN technologies platform that seamlessly integrates with its existing platforms. The technology will be validated on VIS’ mature 8-inch manufacturing line to ensure process stability and high yield. Development activities are expected to start in early 2026, with production scheduled for first-half 2028.
“This technology licensing agreement not only underscores the engagement and ongoing collaborative efforts between VIS and TSMC but also represents our continued commitment to advancing a comprehensive power GaN product portfolio and strengthening our strategic position in compound semiconductors,” says VIS’ president Dr John Wei. “Through this collaboration, we will accelerate our support for customers in high-performance power conversion applications, enabling the semiconductor power technology to move into the next generation and helping realize a future of green energy and intelligent technologies.”
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