United Microelectronics (UMC) has introduced 28eHV+, the latest advancement in its 28nm embedded high voltage (eHV) technology. The process node is designed for driver ICs used in next-generation displays for smartphone, VR/AR and IoT device applications.
In comparison to the proven 28nm eHV process, UMC's 28eHV+ solution reduces power consumption by up to 15% without sacrificing image quality or data rates, addressing the demand for longer device battery life. It also includes optimized features for higher voltage control accuracy and greater flexibility for chip designers, according to the pure-play foundry.
For eHV technology, 28nm is currently the most advanced foundry process for small-panel display driver ICs (SDDI) used in AMOLED panels, which are increasingly being featured in high-end smartphones and AR/VR devices. UMC claimed to be the foundry market leader, accounting for more than 85% of the 28nm SDDI market, having shipped more than 400 million units since volume production began in 2020.
"We are excited to introduce our 28eHV+ platform, which has already gained the interest of several customers and will enter production in the first half of 2023," said Steven Hsu, UMC VP of technology development. "As a leading provider of specialty foundry technologies, UMC offers differentiated solutions that are aligned with our customers' roadmaps, enabling them to capture opportunities in fast-growing markets."
Hsu also noted that the company's display driver solutions will be extended to 22nm and beyond, following the release of 28eHV+.
UMC claimed its 28eHV+ technology has the smallest SRAM bit cells in the industry, reducing chip area. The new solution is based on the foundry's leading gate-last 28nm HKMG technology.
