UltraChip has extended its business operation from LCD driver ICs to touch panel solutions for tablet PCs, according to the Taiwan-based IC design house. The company's touch IC portfolio will be expanded to cover solutions used in smartphones in 2012.
Touch ICs will buoy UltraChip's profit performance in 2012, as the product line has favorable ASPs and yield a higher gross margin compared to driver ICs, the company said.
In addition, UltraChip indicated that applications for its STN LCD driver ICs have been expanded to include automotive. Orders coming from the sector also yield an impressive gross margin.
Meanwhile, UltraChip revealed that the company is shipping customized driver ICs for e-book readers. The product segment will enjoy shipment growth in 2012, contributing to the company's overall revenue and profit growth.
UltraChip reportedly is working with E Ink, which supplies components for e-paper devices to customers such as Amazon.
In other news, industry sources have speculated recently that UltraChip's touch panel solutions have entered the supply chain for ViewSonic's 7e-series tablets, becoming one of few Taiwan-based IC designers shipping products to international brands. Elan Microelectronics, Sitronix Technology, Ilitek and Integrated Technology Express (ITE) reportedly are among the players.
Article translated by Jessie Shen
