The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and the new energy / autonomous vehicle industry presents both challenges and exciting opportunities for the printed circuit board (PCB) and packaging substrate manufacturing business. These dynamics create enormous opportunities and an appetite for fast, efficient, and massive computing resources. The mega-monolithic silicon chip is being replaced by 3D heterogeneous integration of multiple chiplets assembled on an organic build-up substrate platform.MKS Instruments is leading the way in PCB, package substrate, and many areas of wafer-level packaging. At the TPCA Show Taipei 2024, the company presented a wide range of solutions from its Atotech and ESI Laser Systems brands for the industry, from wet chemical processes and production systems to auxiliary equipment, laser drilling systems, and software solutions, demonstrating their new synergies and expanded capabilities to provide manufacturers with improved production results in terms of higher yield, reliability, and operational efficiency.In an interview at the MKS booth, Dr. John Lee, President and CEO of MKS Instruments, discusses the company's strategy to help customers design and manufacture specialized PCBs and package substrates for AI and automotive applications, and to scale operations globally. He explains that more than 85% of the semiconductor front-end applications and more than 70% of the critical steps in package substrate and PCB manufacturing use MKS products. "Our enabling technologies are essential to the development of next-generation electronic devices, from semiconductors to advanced printed circuit boards," he notes. The following summarizes what Dr. Lee shared.Optimize the Interconnect Powering the Future of ElectronicsSurround the Wafer and Surround the Workpiece is MKS's key strategy to address the needs of the semiconductor, advanced electronics, and packaging markets by providing customers with the key components, systems, and services to enable the successful implementation of these solutions. As the advanced packaging and heterogeneous integration technologies continue to follow Moore's Law and improve the performance of multiple silicon dies in a single package, high-speed and reliable interconnects between different dies play an important role.The challenges are many, including multilayer, small alignment, fine line spacing, new materials, and rapid technology upgrades. The industry needs better equipment, tools, and chemistry to meet these needs. MKS has the broadest portfolio of capabilities in the industry and the ability to do it all. The company leverages its expertise in lasers, optics, motion, process chemistry, and equipment to differentiate itself in the marketplace with the ability to Optimize the Interconnect, a key driver for the coming era of advanced electronics, characterized by increasing miniaturization and complexity.Key MKS Solutions at the TPCA 2024 ShowOn the chemistry side, highlights in surface treatment include EcoFlash S300, a new differential etch solution suitable for advanced package substrates, and our new high-tech inner-layer adhesion promoter for high-speed AI applications. For metallization, our highlights include Printoganth MV TP2, a high-performance electroless copper process specifically designed for SAP fine line applications, and our even more enhanced Printoganth MV TP3 process, which enables ultra-thin Cu deposition for fine lines down to 2/2 µm L/S, ideally combined with Cupraganth MV, our new and revolutionary copper-based activation system. For electrolytic copper plating, we highlight our new reverse pulse plating solution for inclusion-free, high aspect ratio through hole filling of package substrate cores, Inpulse 2THF2, and our production-proven InPro SAP3 process for BMV filling with best surface distribution at high current densities. For conformal high-hole density package substrate core plating we are promoting Cuprapulse XP7-IN, our new solution for excellent plating uniformity.For final finishing, highlights range from the OSP solution OS-Tech SIT 2, the new Aurotech G-Bond 3 versatile gold bath for nickel/gold, nickel/palladium/gold, and palladium/gold plating to Stannatech for flex PCBs, as well as for thick tin plating of µ-LEDs or solder depot plating and Stannatech IC for package substrates.PCB equipment systems promotions include G-Plate, a new HVM tool for PTH processes of next-generation package substrates enabling the highest yields and cutting-edge fine line capability targeting L/S <5/5 µm, vPlate, a new vertical continuous plating tool for advanced HDI and package substrate for best-in-class surface uniformity. And last but not least the new Uniplate, the company's flagship HVM system and industry-leading horizontal plating equipment for next-generation HDI PCBs and package substrate manufacturing.Laser equipment promotions include the latest Capstone, a high-performance/throughput productivity breakthrough for flex PCB UV drilling, and Geode (CO2 and UV laser for HDI and package substrate applications). A special show highlight is Geode A, our new CO2 laser system for high-precision and high-speed ABF build-up laminate processing. Geode G2 is our new CO2 laser system for high-precision and high-speed HDI and mSAP via drilling. The Geode platform provides 15% higher optical transmission, 21% less total service area, and up to 65% lower power consumption.These innovative production solutions and process chemicals, such as the above-listed equipment of the horizontal Uniplate for next-generation HDI PCB and package substrate manufacturing, are not only designed for maximum yield and effective fluid performance but also go a step further to significantly reduce water consumption and increase of energy efficiency.As another example, as advanced technology in PCBs moves closer to the semiconductor industry, MKS has developed a wide range of solutions for the next generation of package substrates, which use high-end SAP technology requiring less than 5/5µm lines and spaces. These breakthroughs leverage MKS' unique portfolio of combined services in local technical centers, enabling the company to reduce the cycle time for a typical ABF sample from three months or more to less than one month. In addition, MKS is currently working with industry partners to enable 20/20 µm lines and spaces for substrate-like PCBs using mSAP technology.In addition, MKS supplies several key products for surface treatment, desmear and metallization, electrolytic copper plating, and final finishing to meet the growing demand for FC-BGA and FC-CSP. And the new advances are also being implemented in new materials such as glass substrates and the associated wet chemical processes and manufacturing systems that enable the fine line and high-speed applications of the future of advanced packaging and heterogeneous integration technologies.This is because MKS offers a one-stop-shop destination for pre-treatment, via formation, plating, and final finishing with fast turnaround times that do not interrupt production, enabling customers to achieve better yields, productivity, and performance.New expansion to capitalize on opportunities in Southeast AsiaMKS continues to provide industry-leading products and support to customers in the APAC region. There are currently 14 manufacturing facilities in Asia, including China, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan. In addition, MKS has established various locations throughout the region, including R&D and engineering centers, manufacturing plants, tech centers, and sales and service offices.Much like the semiconductor industry, the printed circuit board, package substrate, and advanced packaging industries are increasingly demanding smaller features, higher density, better performance, and greater manufacturing capacity. The PCB manufacturing landscape in Southeast Asia is undergoing a significant shift, with Thailand quickly becoming the next PCB manufacturing hotspot, attracting significant investment from Chinese, Korean, Taiwanese, and Japanese PCB manufacturers. While cost efficiency has traditionally been a key driver of manufacturing relocation, the market shift to SEA, and Thailand in particular, is being driven primarily by supply chain diversification.Two major announcements in October 2024 highlight new investments from MKS. Firstly, MKS will begin construction of a new Super Center factory in Penang, Malaysia, to support wafer fabrication equipment manufacturing in the region and globally. With proximity to customers and suppliers and a robust technology infrastructure, MKS has chosen Penang as its home to support strong semiconductor ecosystem partners.This expansion in Malaysia is an important milestone for MKS as it continues to expand its capabilities as a leader across a wide range of semiconductor manufacturing applications. This Super Center in Malaysia will better serve the APAC semiconductor market and enable MKS to meet the skyrocketing demand for AI, high-performance computing, automotive technologies, and industrial Internet of Things solutions.A second significant development was the announcement that MKS is opening a technical center and manufacturing facility in Samut Prakan, near Bangkok, Thailand, to serve the growing PCB and package substrate industries in Southeast Asia. Increased competition in the region could lead to accelerated technological advancements in PCB manufacturing, and the emergence of Thailand as a PCB hub could further support the growth of the Southeast Asian electronics sector.While MKS has a strong presence in SEA today, particularly in Thailand, it is well placed to welcome and serve PCB manufacturers, particularly Chinese companies, overseas. "We will continue to invest in China and build more chemical production facilities to serve Chinese PCB customers. Our deep commitment to APAC is more than just strategic; it is the foundation of our future," said Dr. Lee."As semiconductor packaging and heterogeneous integration technologies become more advanced, the need for innovation in PCB and package substrate technology is accelerating. MKS has a well-established and industry-leading presence in APAC and here in Taiwan, with sophisticated equipment process expertise and highly skilled teams of experts. These investments in Asia reflect MKS' commitment to supporting the growth of the semiconductor, PCB, and package substrate markets to drive innovation and to be a key player in the future of technology. We look forward to continuing to invest in Asia's bright future," Dr. Lee concluded.Group picture for John, Gary, and MKS teamsMKS CEO Dr. John Lee interviewed by DIGITIMES Gary Cheng

Cypress Technology (Abbr. CYP) will showcase cutting-edge medical imaging solutions at the Taiwan Healthcare+ Expo from December 5 to 8. With a strong foundation in professional AV technology, combined with AI, 3D, and endoscopic integration, CYP aims to bring broader applications and enhanced value to medical imaging. This exhibition will feature a joint exhibition with Pentax Medical which is one of the world's top three endoscope manufacturers. CYP image processing solutions with multiple signal interfaces will be showcased alongside Pentax Medical's 4K endoscopes. Over the past year, this integrated solution has been promoted and successfully adopted into clinical practice at several renowned medical institutions in Taiwan through UM Medical Instrument Co., Ltd.The rapid advancement of high-end medical imaging digitalization has widely triggered faster revolutions of surgical techniques and methods in improving surgical procedures and efficiency. In response, demands for integrated high-end medical imaging and healthcare information continue to grow. To address the rigorous standards of the healthcare field, CYP has established a dedicated production line that has ISO 13485 and TFDA certified for medical devices.Innovative Breakthrough: Launch of the Second-Generation 3D Medical Images with AI SystemCYP will introduce the latest medical image solution featuring the newly upgraded second-generation 3D medical image processing technology with an AI system. This system is compatible with different types of 3D medical displays that include both naked-eye 3D and polarized 3D screens. The new system also includes an AI-enabled GPU expansion slot in order to fulfill the application requirements of AI-assisted image analysis and diagnosis.4K@60 Video Transmission Over 10G Bandwidth: Enhanced Imaging Quality for Medical Information and Images Dashboards In the field of medical information and image dashboards, CYP leads the way with a high-resolution 4K@60 video solution over a 10G network bandwidth. This medical image distribution solution provides real-time 4K@60 video transmission for medical applications that demand high levels of detail. Moreover, it supports flexible video distribution, streaming, and routing and simplifies the system configurations with displays in installations. It also improves the working efficiency as well as decreases the budget loading regarding the cost matter.Integrated Endoscopic Imaging: Showcasing an Efficient Surgical EnvironmentAt the upcoming Taiwan Healthcare Expo, CYP will demonstrate an integrated endoscopic imaging solution aimed at enhancing surgical efficiency and precision.Moreover, the versatility of AI, 3D, and advanced image processing applications that redefine the value of existing medical images will be fully covered in the solution. With high-resolution medical imaging, healthcare professionals can experience more intuitive and interactive visuals in order to support faster decision-making and precision in surgical operations.Through the solution, the AI platform as well as 3D image technology will be showcased. The solution is currently being promoted to major hospitals with the support of CYP's partner, UM Medical Instrument Corp., which is the sole agent of Pentax Medical in exploring the feasibility of clinical implementation for the Taiwan area.3D Medical Image Processing System with AI-enabled PlatformNextGen Healthcare Panel PC with Multiple Video Processing Module EmbeddedMultiple Medical Image Processing System with AI-enabled platforms & Audiovisual Module Embedded

Headquartered in Taipei, a city renowned for its concentration of high-tech companies, the Taiwanese company HONG TONG TECHNOLOGY CO., founded in 2019 as a subsidiary of INSTANT, specializes in Flash controllers, TF card sales, and consumer products. The company has committed to advancing personal digital management and application development for years.For more information, visit the company website: https://www.hong-tong.com.tw.In September 2024, HONG TONG TECHNOLOGY CO. announced the acquisition of Initio's encryption storage product line, which includes Initio's USB BRIDGE (USB-EMMC/SATA/PCIe) controller ICs with embedded crypto engines, along with the associated firmware, ASICs, technical support, and IP ownership. These operations will be managed from HONG TONG's headquarters in Taipei, Taiwan. With this strategic acquisition, the company aims to strengthen its position in the encryption market and accelerate the development of next-generation secure storage solutions.HONG TONG stated that, in addition to our existing key technologies in personal data management and intelligent translation, this acquisition is significant as it complements our capabilities in the increasingly critical area of data encryption. In the face of rapidly increasing data transfer speeds, this will effectively reduce the risk of unauthorized data access and misuse. It will address the long-standing need for robust data confidentiality mechanisms in our products and make encryption a fundamental feature of our new offerings. This acquisition will seamlessly integrate into our personal digital management solutions, with a focus on the diversification and development of encryption applications being a key future goal.Revolutionizing Data Encryption HONG TONG Acquires Initio's Encryption Storage Line to Drive Secure Data Innovation

The market has reacted optimistically to Donald Trump's U.S. election victory, pushing crypto's total market capitalization above $3.2 trillion. Investors view Trump as a pro-crypto replacement for the current administration, which is considered skeptical, at best.While positive moves were expected regardless of who won the election, Trump's victory is viewed as being the most positive outcome. Crypto's market capitalization is the highest it has ever been, coinciding with Bitcoin's record highs, and higher even than November 2021, when capitalization reached nearly $3.1 trillion.Cryptocurrency RiseCryptocurrency is a popular investment vehicle thanks to its potential for substantial daily price increases. It is also becoming increasingly widely accepted by businesses as a payment option for services and products. Modern payment gateways have seen their acceptance at e-commerce and online business websites increase, as well as in the global surge of Bitcoin casino websites.According to crypto casino writer Gary McLellan, Bitcoin casinos are proving popular because they offer faster payouts and higher withdrawal limits than traditional online casinos while still providing access to a varied selection of games.Investors are also taking a gamble on Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. BTC price was $69,000 the day before the election when polls and media claimed it was too tight to call a likely winner. However, once it became apparent that Trump had overperformed these predictions, the world's largest cryptocurrency saw its price start to rise.One week after the election, it rose to $88,000 and on Monday it broke the $90,000 mark. Although it is expected to face a lot of resistance at the $100,000 psychological barrier, many analysts now expect it to push through this mark and go on to a price of $150,000 or more. Some optimistic supporters believe it can eventually reach a price of $1 million due to its increased scarcity and demand.Cryptocurrency's $3.2 trillion market capitalization is impressive, but it still falls some way short of other investment markets. The NYSE, for example, has a total capitalization of $30 trillion. NASDAQ, the second largest stock exchange in the U.S., has a market capitalization of $25 trillion. The global foreign exchange market has a total market cap of $2.4 quadrillion and a daily trading volume of $7.5 trillion.The cryptocurrency market may be some way behind, but considering Bitcoin was only launched in 2009, it has grown considerably, especially following the launch of Bitcoin and Ether ETFs. With Trump in power, many are expecting the launch of further ETFs with Solana being a favorite to have its own fund products hit the market.The Rest Of The MarketBitcoin isn't the only cryptocurrency to have benefited from Trump's victory. Ether's price stood at $2,500 before the election before reaching a high of $3,300 on November 12. ETH prices have corrected since, falling to $3,100, but this still represents an increase of 24% in less than a fortnight.DOGE has seen some of the biggest increases of the largest coins. What was once considered something of a joke within cryptocurrency has seen significant support from crypto enthusiasts, including celebrity names like Snoop Dogg and, of course, Elon Musk. Musk threw his hat in Trump's election bid ring, following him on the last legs of the campaign trail.Musk was rewarded by being made head of the new government department, The Department Of Government Efficiency, or D.O.G.E. for short, effectively giving the meme coin even more credence. Before the election, the DOGE price was $0.15. A week later it peaked at $0.39 and while it has fallen back a little to $0.37 that still represents an increase of nearly 150% since the election.Ripple and Stellar, which are considered bridges between traditional finance and modern cryptocurrencies, were a little slower to take off after the election but have gone on to make consider gains since then.XLM (Stellar) cost $0.091 pre-election and rose to $0.11 after a week (+21%) but is now trading at $0.25, posting an increase of 175%.XRP (Ripple) cost $0.51 on November 4 and added 18% to its price to reach $0.6 seven days later. It is now trading at $1.15, representing a 125% increase.Ripple and Stellar are two currencies that could benefit hugely from a second Trump presidency. Ripple has been in a years-long battle with the SEC over whether it is a security and should be legally treated as such.SEC chair Gary Gensler is adamant that the coin owes the SEC large sums of money, despite the courts recently ruling in favor of the crypto. During Trump's election bid, he vowed to sack Gensler on day one.His ability to do so has been questioned, but, at the very least, Gensler is highly unlikely to remain in place beyond his current tenure which expires in June 2026, and if the president-elect makes Gensler's life especially difficult, he may choose to leave office sooner, with Trump likely nominating a more crypto-friendly alternative to take the main seat.The Crypto ElectionThis election was the first where cryptocurrency was really even discussed. Initially, while incumbent President Joe Biden was still competing for re-election, Trump set himself up as the crypto President to counter Biden's anti-crypto stance. He promised to make the U.S. the crypto capital of the planet and hinted at sweeping changes for the industry.When Vice President Kamala Harris was nominated as a replacement for Joe Biden in the presidential race, her softer stance on cryptocurrency regulation was noted. She especially promised to look after the interests of investors, suggesting the first steps to better regulation could be on the cards.However, it was Trump that found the backing of the industry with major names within the sector donating millions of dollars to his election campaign and Musk firmly taking a seat next to him. It's unclear exactly what changes he will bring, but considering the Trump family has established its own crypto lending platform and Musk's installment in a prominent position within government, it is likely that crypto will see benefits.

5G networks represent a massive leap forward in the global telecommunications industry. Offering a wide range of benefits like much faster speed and lower latency, it's improved all manner of other industries from gaming to streaming, by providing a far better calibre of network for these sectors to run on.It also provided massive potential to enhance the mobile gaming experience, with an entire sector of new gaming experiences that have arisen with the introduction of 5G technology. Many of the drawbacks of earlier network generations have been resolved with it, making it a sought-after technology for network providers to use.One area that is benefiting greatly from 5G is the iGaming industry. Casino gaming sites, like this one here, come with big bonuses and a wide selection of games. With 5G, gamers can take full advantage of these benefits.With users from places like Malaysia showing a growing interest in sectors like iGaming now, U Mobile has addressed concerns regarding its recent selection to develop Malaysia's second 5G network. The company highlighted its significant investments and rapid expansion in network infrastructure, which have enabled it to offer competitive mobile packages and achieve coverage comparable to larger competitors.In response to questions about its ownership structure, U Mobile announced that ST Telemedia, a subsidiary of Singapore's Temasek Holdings, will reduce its stake from 48.3% to 20%. This move aims to increase local ownership and align with Malaysia's national interests.However, the decision for U Mobile to be awarded the contract is proving controversial. This is because there are many larger providers in the country like CelcomDigi and Maxis who seem like a more logical choice given the greater resources they possess.As a result, critics have raised concerns about the selection process and the company's foreign ownership. However, U Mobile emphasized its commitment to a swift and cost-effective 5G rollout, citing its track record of investing over RM5 billion in network infrastructure and achieving 95% national population coverage.There are some obvious advantages of 5G: its unparalleled speed. While 4G provided huge improvements over 3G, 5G is much, much faster. This speed increase significantly decreases download times and enables the smooth streaming of high-quality graphics without freezing or excessive buffering.The second crucial area where 5G excels is latency, or the amount of time it takes for information to travel. In industries like gaming, low latency is crucial for responsiveness and real-time interactions. Traditional networks' latency problems make it challenging to provide reliable networks, which could irritate players—especially those who need to react quickly.Beyond speed and latency, 5G's enhanced capacity promises to completely transform mobile entertainment. The capacity to connect more devices simultaneously will eliminate the perils of an overcrowded network. For popular online entertainment sites like streaming services and eCommerce portals, this is especially helpful, as a large number of users can overload the network and render the performance of the site slow.However, 5G allows more users to use the network, making for a consistent, reliable experience despite high traffic volumes. In the case of U Mobile, the company has pointed out its role in promoting affordability in the telecommunications sector by offering competitively priced products and services. With a subscriber base of nine million, U Mobile plans to continue innovating and deploying the second 5G network without relying on government funding.Whatever happens, consumers are hoping the issues can be resolved successfully as 5G networks are also more secure overall. Having a second, strong, affordable, and reliable 5G network will benefit Malaysia greatly as technologies like AI and machine learning will require it as they continue to develop. While U Mobile believes it is the right fit to take 5G forward in the country, time will tell if the contract was perhaps too hastily awarded.

Founded in 2019 by Armstrong Murira and Nardin Nakhla, Simmunome stands out as a pioneering Canadian techbio startup. While traditional biotech companies focus on developing therapeutics, Simmunome takes a different approach: applying advanced technology to understand biological processes. This distinction places Simmunome at the forefront of transforming drug development through computational methods.Simmunome's tech bio approach bridges the gap between data and actionable insights, offering a unique solution to accelerate drug development. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and strategic partnerships, the company is poised to make a significant impact on global healthcare, redefining how the industry approaches research, development, and patient outcomes.The Origins and Vision of SimmunomeThe idea behind Simmunome began with Armstrong Murira's extensive background in molecular biology and experience in the pharmaceutical industry. Noticing the inefficiencies in clinical research and business analytics, Murira envisioned a future where computational biology could overcome these limitations. "How can we represent complex biological systems computationally to run virtual experiments?" Murira questioned. This approach aimed to save time, reduce costs, and increase the precision of pharmaceutical research. However, the idea was ahead of its time in the early 2010s, when computational power, data access, and AI algorithms were still nascent.By 2019, advancements in these key areas aligned, enabling Murira to co-found Simmunome with Nakhla, a PhD graduate in neuroscience from McGill University. Nakhla brought expertise in machine learning and its application to brain function and visual perception—knowledge that seamlessly connected to the development of biologically accurate computational models.A Tech Bio Approach: From Data to DiscoverySimmunome identifies itself as a techbio rather than a biotech company, reflecting its commitment to using technology to analyze biological data without directly developing therapeutics. The company's platform harnesses artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, relying on large volumes of de-identified data from public sources and client-provided datasets. This innovative use of computational tools allows Simmunome to simulate biological processes and predict disease mechanisms, helping pharmaceutical and biotech clients make informed decisions before entering costly clinical trials.One significant advantage of Simmunome's approach is its hybrid data integration. Unlike some tech giants entering the life sciences that focus solely on big data, Simmunome emphasizes data quality and mechanistic representation. "Biology has its own set of rules," a representative explained, "and we combine big data with a mechanistic approach that models these biological rules, resulting in more generalizable and accurate predictions."The Platform's Key ApplicationsSimmunome's platform benefits clients by streamlining multiple phases of drug research:Understanding Disease Mechanisms: By modeling diseases and their underlying pathways, Simmunome helps researchers identify why certain conditions occur, providing insights into dysregulation and potential targets.Target Identification and Validation: Clients can use Simmunome's simulations to pinpoint and confirm potential therapeutic targets, reducing reliance on traditional animal models, which often fail to translate effectively to human biology.Biomarker Discovery and Diagnostics: The platform enables the identification of biomarkers and signals that indicate how specific patient subpopulations will respond to treatments, supporting the development of companion diagnostics.Addressing Industry ChallengesThe journey of building such a platform is not without challenges. Simmunome highlights three main hurdles: data quantity, data quality, and methodological approaches. While a minimum quantity of data is essential, the company underscores that quality often outweighs sheer volume. The hybrid approach taken by Simmunome—training models on general biological mechanisms before layering patient-specific data—avoids biases that can limit predictive accuracy and ensures that results are applicable across broader scenarios.Looking to Taiwan for Growth and CollaborationSimmunome's aspirations extend beyond North America. The company recognizes Taiwan's strengths in data infrastructure, precision medicine, and government-supported innovation as critical assets for its expansion. Taiwan's mature electronic health records systems, extensive biobank resources, and skilled talent pool make it an ideal partner for collaboration. "We're looking for opportunities to conduct clinical validations in Asia, and Taiwan could serve as a strategic stepping stone for entering other regional markets like Korea and Japan," Tanya Tolomeo, Simmunome Head of Business Development stated.Future Goals: Scaling and Democratizing AISimmunome recently completed a CAD 2 million pre-seed round and is preparing for an $8 million seed round in 2025 to fuel its next phase of growth. The funding will support team expansion, the development of new disease models beyond the current nine focused on oncology and neurodegenerative conditions, and new platform features such as drug safety prediction and repurposing tools."Why not develop our own drugs?" is a question many people posed to the company. Their answer underscores their mission to democratize technology. "Developing drugs would require an entirely different core competency and significant capital. More importantly, we want to help as many companies as possible create effective treatments faster, without bias. That's how we drive forward patient care and research."Simmunome CTO and co-founder Nardin Nakhla. Credit: Company

SK Hynix Inc. (or "the company", www.skhynix.com) announced today that it has started mass production of the world's first triple-level cell*-based 321-high 4D NAND Flash with 1Tb capacity.*NAND Flash products are categorized into single-, multi-, triple-, quadruple-, and penta-level cells, depending on the number of information in the format of bit unit stored in a cell. A bigger number of information stored means more data can be stored in the same space.Following its previous record as the industry's first provider of the world's highest 238-layer NAND since June last year, SK Hynix has become the world's first supplier of NAND with more than 300 layers by finding a technological breakthrough for stacking. The company plans to provide the 321-high products to customers from the first half of next year.Stacking more than 300 layers came into reality as the company successfully adopted the "3 plugs"** process technology. Known for its excellent production efficiency, the process electrically connects three plugs through an optimized follow-up process after three times of plug processes are finished. For the process, SK Hynix developed a low-stress*** material, while introducing the technology that automatically corrects alignments among the plugs.With the adoption of the same development platform from the 238-high NAND on the 321-high product, the company could also improve productivity by 59%, compared with the previous generation, by minimizing any impacts from a process switch.** Plug: a vertical hole through layers of substrates aimed at creating cells at once*** Low Stress: Preventing wafer warpage by changing the material into the plugsThe latest product comes with an improvement of 12% in data transfer speed and 13% in reading performance, compared with the previous generation. It also enhances data reading power efficiency by more than 10%.SK Hynix plans to steadily expand the use of the 321-high products by providing them to the nascent AI applications, which require low power and high performance.Jungdal Choi, Head of NAND Development at SK Hynix, said that the latest development brings the company a step closer to the leadership of the AI storage market represented by SSD for AI data centers and on-device AI. "SK Hynix is on track to advancing to the Full Stack AI Memory Provider by adding a perfect portfolio in the ultra-high performance NAND space on top of the DRAM business led by HBM."About SK Hynix Inc.SK hynix Inc., headquartered in Korea, is the world's top-tier semiconductor supplier offering Dynamic Random Access Memory chips ("DRAM"), flash memory chips ("NAND flash"), and CMOS Image Sensors ("CIS") for a wide range of distinguished customers globally. The Company's shares are traded on the Korean Exchange, and the Global Depository shares are listed on the Luxemburg Stock Exchange. Further information about SK Hynix is available at www.skhynix.com and news.skhynix.com.SK Hynix’s 321-high NAND. Credit: SK Hynix

In 2010, Azadeh Dastmalchi's journey toward transforming healthcare began with a personal challenge. Her father's aversion to traditional blood pressure cuffs inspired her to explore alternative solutions. This spark ignited a decade-long pursuit during her master's and PhD studies at the University of Ottawa, where she developed a groundbreaking method for measuring blood pressure using optical sensors and artificial neural networks.By 2019, Dastmalchi had transformed her academic research into a business venture, founding VitalTracer, a Canadian startup focused on creating advanced medical devices. Initially centered on a smartwatch, the company faced challenges convincing investors of its potential in a market dominated by tech giants like Apple and Fitbit. This skepticism, coupled with concerns about the accuracy of wrist-based measurements, led to a pivotal shift: VitalTracer refocused its efforts on a chest-mounted smart patch. The patch offered greater reliability and garnered trust from medical professionals, investors, and regulatory bodies alike.Redefining the Pediatric Healthcare MarketWhile the senior care market seemed a natural starting point, Dastmalchi's team quickly realized it was fraught with logistical barriers, particularly in Canada's public healthcare system. Instead, they pivoted to pediatric care, addressing a critical gap in monitoring technology designed specifically for children.Unlike competitors who focus on adult or newborn patients, VitalTracer's solution targets children aged 1 to 18. Its smart patch not only delivers highly accurate readings but also offers a cost-effective alternative to disposable devices, reducing costs from $100 per day to just $1. This innovation also aligns with environmental sustainability goals, as its reusable and rechargeable design minimizes waste.Overcoming Regulatory and Funding ChallengesVitalTracer's journey hasn't been without hurdles. Securing FDA clearance—a critical milestone for market entry—has required rigorous clinical trials, which the company is currently conducting in Montreal. Fortunately, VitalTracer has leveraged Quebec's robust ecosystem of government grants to sustain its research and development efforts.Nicknamed the "queen of grants," Dastmalchi has skillfully navigated non-dilutive funding opportunities to support the company's growth. These grants, often matched with private investments, have provided the financial stability needed to reach this stage. Now, the company is preparing for its first pre-seed funding round to scale its operations and expand its market presence.Diversity at the Core of InnovationA key differentiator for VitalTracer lies in its commitment to diversity. Recognizing the limitations of existing medical technologies—often calibrated on homogenous populations—VitalTracer has prioritized inclusivity in its product development. The company's AI algorithms are designed to deliver accurate results across different skin tones and demographics, addressing racial biases that have historically plagued healthcare devices.This focus has driven the company to seek partnerships in diverse regions, including the Middle East and Asia, where their technology can be further refined and validated for global applications.A Vision for Global HealthcareLooking ahead, VitalTracer is setting its sights beyond North America. While FDA approval remains a priority, the company is targeting the Middle East, Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea as its primary markets. These regions offer unique growth opportunities, with underserved populations and an openness to adopting innovative healthcare solutions.For Dastmalchi, the mission is deeply personal and humanitarian. "I dream of creating a trusted, world-class medical device that saves lives and offers peace of mind to patients and families," she says. Her vision extends beyond commercial success, focusing on improving healthcare equity worldwide, particularly in Africa, which is often overlooked by traditional medical technology companies. She hopes to find like-minded investors and partners and aims to triple the size of the team after the pre-seed round of fundraising. She will focus on the Middle East market for the next 2-3 years.VitalTracer is planning to participate in the Healthcare+ Expo from December 5-8 at the Nankang Exhibition Center in Taiwan.

Bronwyn Bridges, CEO of PragmaClin Research Inc., began her academic journey in biology before transitioning to pharmacology. Driven by a deep interest in brain health, Bridges focused on Parkinson's Disease.During her research, which evolved from a master's thesis into a PhD, she met Gord Genge, who had been recently diagnosed with Parkinson's. Gord's experience—marked by a one-to-two-year wait for a neurology appointment and a diagnostic process involving subjective assessments—highlighted the urgent need for better tools. Inspired to address this gap, Bridges and Genge co-founded PragmaClin, with the goal of developing technology for objective neurological assessments.One of PragmaClin's primary differentiators is its non-wearable technology. Unlike traditional sensor-based systems that require a physical attachment, PragmaClin uses cameras and AI to capture and analyze motor parameters. "Our system doesn't require anything to be worn, which significantly enhances usability, especially for patients struggling with fine motor skills," Bridges explained. "This ease of use fosters greater adoption among patients and clinicians alike and offers real-time scoring, eliminating the need to send data for re-evaluation."PragmaClin's business model adapts to various settings. In rural clinics, where patients are far from urban centers and only have access to primary care, the technology can streamline assessments, removing the need for patients to drive hours to a city clinic. In urban centers where neurology clinics are concentrated, it assists patient throughput, allowing neurologists to see more patients in a shorter period of time. PragmaClin also envisions its product playing a crucial role in clinical trials, ensuring standardized, reliable scoring to support pharmaceutical and clinical research.Q: PragmaClin's approach seems suited for long-term patient care. Do you offer follow-up services after diagnosis?"Yes, follow-up is one of our core value propositions. Many Parkinson's patients are seen just once a year—or at best, every six months. PragmaClin's system helps bridge the gap between appointments by capturing and storing objective data. We're also developing a home-based component for caregivers and patients to monitor non-motor symptoms, like sleep and cognitive function, to provide ongoing insights between specialist visits."Q: Has PragmaClin considered the Asian market?"Yes, especially given the aging population and Taiwan's openness to innovation. Taiwan offers an accessible entry point into Asia, allowing us to establish trust and showcase our value proposition on a smaller, manageable scale before expanding further. Additionally, Taiwan's reputable manufacturing and quality standards align with our goals. We're interested in building partnerships with hospitals and research institutions across Taiwan to trial our technology and prove its value in diverse healthcare settings."Bridges envisions PragmaClin making a significant impact over the next five years, initially targeting Parkinson's disease and then expanding to other movement disorders, like Huntington's disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke. Currently in pre-seed fundraising, PragmaClin aims to secure funding to complete clinical trials, obtain regulatory approvals, and prepare for market entry.Q: How are you approaching regulatory approval for PragmaClin's product?"FDA approval remains a priority, and we've completed initial steps to clarify requirements. We're conducting trials in Canada and Europe (initially Ireland), which will support our approval efforts in those regions. Meanwhile, we're exploring partnerships in Asia, where regulatory timelines can be shorter, compared to FDA approval which is viewed by many as a gold standard."PragmaClin currently has eight full-time staff and a few contractors. With the planned pre-seed funding, Bridges expects to expand her team, especially in clinical research, software development, and business strategy.Bronwyn Bridges will be in Taiwan on December 6th and 7th, attending the Healthcare Expo at the Nankang Exhibition Center in Taipei, where she looks forward to discussing potential collaborations.

Founded in 2012, Canadian MedTech startup Synaptive Medical has set a new standard for neurosurgical and medical imaging innovations. Driven by a mission to enhance patient outcomes, Synaptive has developed an integrated suite of advanced tools designed to revolutionize the surgical experience to execution in such technologies as pre-operative planning, surgical navigation, surgical robotics, surgical simulation, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) devices. Synaptive has commercialized 7 products since its inception.Holistic Patient Care Through Integrated TechnologySynaptive's cornerstone is its integrated suite that holistically supports the patient journey in a clinical setting. The process begins with Synaptive's MRI system, which captures high-resolution imaging data. This data feeds into the company's pre-operative planning software, which automatically segments neural pathways to facilitate precision surgical planning. This seamless integration allows surgeons to make better, data-driven decisions, enhancing both patient safety and surgical success.The innovation doesn't stop there. Synaptive's state-of-the-art navigation suite enables surgeons to accurately target the anatomy with guided precision, while the robotic microscope provides unparalleled 3D visualization that dynamically follows the surgeon's tools. "By bringing all of these products together, we are achieving better outcomes for patients, which is what drives us every day," explained Brett Tapson, Regional Business Director.A Legacy Rooted in Imaging ExcellenceCameron Piron, Synaptive's founder and president, has a deep background in MRI physics. His previous venture, Sentinel Medical, developed a breast coil capable of performing biopsies within an MRI scanner. This long-standing passion for imaging technology has permeated Synaptive's culture and innovations. "The MRI has always been at the forefront of our technology," the representative said. Today, Synaptive's MRI systems are deployed in both the United States and Canada, underscoring the company's commitment to cutting-edge medical imaging.Advanced Simulations: Bridging Training and Real-Life SurgeryWhile Synaptive's core focus remains on transforming surgical precision through MRI, navigation, and robotic microscopy, Synaptive developed a cranial simulation product that offers a unique, hands-on training solution to enhance these primary tools. This simulation model, which replicates the feel of real brain tissue, allows surgeons to practice delicate procedures like anastomosis and tumor resections in a controlled, cost-effective environment. Integrated with Synaptive's planning software and robotic microscope, the simulator serves as a valuable extension, equipping surgeons with realistic tactile feedback to reinforce skills developed with Synaptive's main suite. "We think this is crucial for upcoming surgeons, allowing them to practice procedures with the most accurate tactile feedback available," Brett noted.Robust Regulatory and IP StrategyA key factor in Synaptive's growth has been its strategic approach to regulatory approval. The company's team includes seasoned regulatory professionals and key opinion leaders who expedite compliance processes, resulting in multiple FDA and CE-marked products. Additionally, Synaptive's founder and team manage intellectual property internally, holding a robust portfolio of over 1,000 patents, which significantly reduces costs and safeguards innovation.Strengthening Global Ties and Future AspirationsAs Synaptive eyes expansion, the company is exploring strategic partnerships, particularly in regions known for technological talent and manufacturing expertise. "Finding technological talent is challenging, and Taiwan has shown exceptional capabilities in this area. We're excited by the potential collaborations and distribution partnerships that could enable us to bring our products to the Taiwanese market," said Cameron.Reducing Costs and Expanding ValidationSynaptive is actively seeking ways to reduce the cost of manufacturing and materials. Establishing supply chain relationships in Taiwan could play a significant role in achieving this goal. The company's plans also include expanding clinical validation to new regions to strengthen its global presence. "While we have solid clinical validation in North America and are making progress in Europe, Asia is the next frontier for us, and Taiwan could be a strategic stepping stone," Cameron explained.Future Plans: IPO and BeyondSynaptive is in the process of wrapping up its Series C round of financing, aiming for profitability by Q1 or Q2 of 2025. The company's long-term strategy includes pursuing an IPO to fuel growth and expand its reach in global markets. "I have a deep desire to see our company expand to more regions, including Taiwan," said Cameron. With the potential for acquisition and increased sales, Synaptive's journey is poised for a new chapter, driven by technological innovation and strategic partnerships.