Thierry’s Connectivity Newsletter #239
Semiconductors, IP & Standards
Ambiq Micro files for U.S. IPO (but is not profitable) as generative AI fuels chip demand - link
RISC-V processor developer Codasip is up for sale - link
Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan considers shifting foundry unit's focus to "14A" chipmaking process - link
Renesas has introduced the RA8P1 MCU (22ULL+MRAM) , targeting AI and machine learning applications, as well as real-time analytics - link
Renesas delays US$20 billion revenue goal, scales back power chip plans after EV setback - link
Samsung delaying completion of US chip plant due to lack of customers - link
Synopsys confirms lifting of export restrictions to China - link
UMC Reportedly Mulls Rejoining Advanced Node Race via Rumored Intel 6nm Tie-Up - link
Unisoc (fka RDA/Spreadtrum) is applying to IPO in China - link
US Senate budget bill could take 6 GHz spectrum away from Wi-Fi, give it to mobile carriers - link
UWB’s Growing Diversity Highlights Enormous Potential of Technology While Bringing New Challenges - link
OEMs & Ecosystems
AirPod Maker Luxshare Is Said to Pick Banks for HK Listing - link
Europeans to miss certain iOS 26 features due to strict EU regulations - link
Microsoft cuts 9,000 workers in second wave of major layoffs - link
Apple Reportedly Has Numerous XR Headsets & Glasses Coming Between Now & 2028- link
Audio
Apple is rolling out auto-pause for AirPods when you're asleep in iOS 26, Beats headphones could get it too - link
Telink Semiconductor's New Audio Products Initiate the Intelligent Era of Wireless Audio "Multi-Mode Mixing" - link
Cambridge Audio Rebranding and New Evo 150 SE Enhanced Streaming Amplifier - link
I tested Cambridge Audio's all-new Melomania A100 earbuds and now I'm even crazier about music - link
TWS Market Entering Maturity, Poised for Moderate Growth Through 2028 - Counterpoint
Marshall Middleton II portable Bluetooth speaker announced - link
Nothing Headphone (1) with up to 42dB hybrid ANC, LDAC, up to 80 playback launched - link
Nothing, Taps Ceva’s RealSpace Software to Bring Immersive Spatial Audio to Headphones and Earbuds - link
Wearables and XR
Global Smartwatch Market Shipments Down 2% YoY in Q1 2025; China Maintains Upward Momentum -link
Auto
EQT agrees to sell Pioneer for $1.1B to CarUX, a unit of Taiwan-listed Innolux specializing in smart cockpit tech - link