GlobalFoundries has completed its acquisition of Singapore-based Advanced Micro Foundry, strengthening its position in the critical silicon photonics sector targeting AI data centers and quantum computing.
The deal positions GlobalFoundries to address the growing "data transmission bottleneck" in AI infrastructure. Silicon photonics technology replaces electronic signals with light pulses for data transfer, delivering major improvements in speed, power efficiency, and interference resistance. With AI data centers now handling over 100 Gbps per server, traditional electronic interconnects are reaching their limits.
The acquisition complements GlobalFoundries' existing silicon photonics capabilities, developed through partnerships with startups like PsiQuantum. AMF brings mature photonic chip design and manufacturing expertise, creating a complete technology portfolio. GlobalFoundries stated it aims to become the world's largest silicon photonics component manufacturer and will establish a new R&D center in Singapore to accelerate innovation.
CEO Tim Breen emphasized that silicon photonics has become essential rather than optional for next-generation computing infrastructure.
The move intensifies competition in the rapidly growing photonics market. TSMC and Intel are also active in this space, but GlobalFoundries' combined foundry scale and integrated technology create a strong competitive position. Increased competition is expected to drive down costs and accelerate adoption in AI and quantum systems.
ICgoodFind :
GlobalFoundries' strategic acquisition highlights silicon photonics' crucial role in future computing, with intensified competition benefiting entire industry.
