DIGITIMES: News and Insight of the Global Supply Chain

Spy probe highlights Nvidia's heavy reliance on CEO

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 09:35:00 GMT

Nvidia's management structure has become a topic of discussion after CEO Jensen Huang became embroiled in an espionage case following his affair with an alleged Chinese spy. With power within the company concentrated in Huang, Nvidia's lack of an obvious successor and Huang's influence on the board have raised questions about the company's future beyond its current leader.

UK space firms eye Taiwan's chip and hardware ecosystem, global satellite production scales up

Yunnie Cheng — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 08:59:00 GMT

As the global satellite industry shifts toward standardization and high-volume production, demand is accelerating for satellite subsystems, communications hardware, and onboard computing systems. Leveraging its strengths in advanced semiconductor fabrication, electronic hardware, and high-precision manufacturing, Taiwan has emerged as an indispensable supply-chain partner for international space companies.

Qisda ramps up AI investment, sees data-center slowdown as short-term

Charlene Chen — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 08:55:00 GMT

Qisda is increasing its investment in AI, with chairman Peter Chen saying a short-term slowdown in data-center construction would not derail the long-term AI trend and could ease component shortages across the supply chain. Qisda expects fourth-quarter revenue to remain broadly in line with that of the third quarter while accelerating its AI initiatives.

Apple files China registration for Apple Intelligence on iPad, Mac

Charlene Chen — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 08:50:00 GMT

Apple's generative AI (GenAI) service, Apple Intelligence, has completed regulatory filings for tablets and laptops in China after securing approval to launch on smartphones, advancing the company's AI strategy in the Chinese market.

SoftBank Group, Grab, PETROS commit US$1.85 billion to Malaysian AI infrastructure

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 08:35:16 GMT

SoftBank Group, Grab, and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS) have entered into joint development agreements to deploy US$1.85 billion in initial seed capital for large-scale artificial intelligence infrastructure across Malaysia.

Anthropic's Fable 5.2 and Mythos 5.2 advance agentic AI

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 08:30:31 GMT

The launch of Claude Fable 5.2 and Claude Mythos 5.2 marks a decisive shift in artificial intelligence, transitioning models from passive task completion to true autonomous collaboration. Built on a shared neural foundation, the twin models divide responsibilities to balance sheer technical capability with safety. Fable 5.2 functions as the safeguarded, general-purpose workhorse for enterprise applications, whereas Mythos 5.2 provides unrestricted capabilities to vetted institutions tackling sensitive cybersecurity and life sciences research.

Y.S. Tech launches liquid-cooling lab as auto orders reach 2028

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 07:56:34 GMT

Y.S. Tech will open a high-performance computing liquid-cooling laboratory at its new Renwu plant in Kaohsiung by the end of 2026, strengthening its ability to develop high-efficiency, low-noise cooling solutions, while its automotive orders extend through 2028.

Acer posts 13-year revenue high on commercial PCs, tablets

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 07:44:40 GMT

Acer Inc. reported consolidated revenue of NT$26.391 billion in October, a five-year high for the month, up 24.3% year-over-year. Revenue for the first 10 months reached NT$275.940 billion, a 13-year high, rising 24.0% year-over-year.

Ericsson CEO bets on AI and in-house RAN chips as 6G, satellite competition loom

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 07:31:56 GMT

Ericsson CEO Per Narvinger is betting on AI to drive the next wave of telecom equipment demand, as the Swedish vendor develops dedicated radio access network (RAN) chips, strengthens its indoor 5G business and targets opportunities in the 6G era.

Yageo posts record October sales as China holiday weighs on Walsin's revenue

Sherri Wang — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 07:04:54 GMT

Taiwanese passive component makers Yageo and Walsin Technology reported contrasting October results, with Yageo posting record monthly revenue on strong AI demand while Walsin's sales declined from September due to China's National Day holidays. Both companies recorded year-over-year revenue growth of more than 50%.

Nvidia showcases factory AI at Seoul event; Jensen Huang's daughter absent

Sherri Wang — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 06:56:03 GMT

Nvidia showcased its work with South Korean manufacturers on robot simulation, precision sanding and factory digital twins as its AI Day Seoul event opened on November 9, despite the absence of senior director Madison Huang, who canceled her planned visit to South Korea.

Tesla to add production shift to meet Cybertruck backlog before its phase-out

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 06:40:19 GMT

Tesla CEO Elon Musk said that the company will add an extra production shift for its Cybertrucks to meet order backlogs before it stops manufacturing them. The vehicles —iconic to some and infamous to others— are being phased out after years of sales far below expectations as the company pivots toward robotics and AI.

Nvidia legal chief accused of interfering in Megaspeed probe

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 06:33:17 GMT

An alleged affair between Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang and former Singapore-based Megaspeed executive Alice Huang has triggered a storm. In 2024, the US Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) launched an investigation into Megaspeed's alleged chip smuggling. New reports indicate that Nvidia closely monitored the probe and was accused of attempting to intervene.

TSMC October 2026 revenue surges 59.7% on strong AI chip demand

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 06:27:36 GMT

TSMC reported a 59.7% year-over-year increase in October 2026 revenue, extending its strong growth momentum as demand for advanced chips used in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure continues to support the semiconductor industry.

Nvidia could face more scrutiny by new Congress in wake of spy probe

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 06:15:02 GMT

An incoming Democratic majority in the US Congress is likely to place Nvidia under greater scrutiny in light of recent revelations that the chipmaker's CEO, Jensen Huang, had an affair with an alleged Chinese spy. The legislature is already advancing a series of bills that seek to halt the flow of advanced US chips to China.

Three workers die at Tata iPhone parts plant, reviving scrutiny of Apple's India supply chain

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 06:14:30 GMT

A fatal gas exposure at an Apple supplier's factory in southern India has renewed scrutiny of worker safety as the company expands production in a country that has already seen fires, hazardous factory conditions, and labor disputes at iPhone-linked facilities.

Tesla plans Cybertruck exit after Model S and Model X; raises stakes for Cybercab and Optimus

Levi Li — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 04:48:03 GMT

Tesla's Cybertruck, once hailed by CEO Elon Musk as the company's "best product," is heading towards discontinuation. Musk recently announced on X that production at Tesla's Texas Gigafactory would be phased out around mid-2027, freeing capacity for the autonomous Cybercab robotaxi.

SpaceX's US$24B Texas AI data center plan signals a bigger play for energy control

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 04:45:00 GMT

SpaceX plans to invest approximately US$24 billion in a natural gas-fired power plant and supercomputing facility in Starbase, Texas, extending Elon Musk's strategy of controlling the energy infrastructure behind the company's expanding AI and space operations.

Foxconn extends vertical integration across 5 battery layers

Rodney Chan — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 04:30:00 GMT

Young Liu, chairman of Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn), repeatedly highlighted the company's strength in vertical integration at Hon Hai Tech Day 2026 (HHTD26), underscoring progress beyond AI data centers and into battery applications. Foxconn is linking materials, cells, battery management systems (BMS), battery packs and end applications as it targets EVs, energy storage, drones and AI data-center backup systems.

AI server demand squeezes India's PCB supply as material costs surge

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 04:29:14 GMT

India's electronics manufacturers are paying sharply more for printed circuit boards (PCBs) as material suppliers shift capacity to artificial intelligence servers, with industry groups warning of production cuts and higher consumer prices.

Intel looks beyond 18A and 14A to reshape computing

Lily Hess — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 04:21:43 GMT

Intel has fallen noticeably behind rivals including Nvidia and AMD in the generative AI boom. Rather than concentrating all its resources on catching current market leaders, the company is pursuing quantum computing, neuromorphic computing, silicon photonics, new materials, and in-memory computing to prepare for the next shift in computing architectures.

Ennostar sees weak 4Q26, eyes micro LED, optical communications as growth drivers for 2027

Kevin Wang — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 04:21:37 GMT

Ennostar Holdings posted NT$1.27 billion (US$38.7 million) in net profit for the third quarter of 2026, returning to the black from a loss in the same quarter a year earlier due to pre-stocking demand for the upcoming peak-season and gains from non-operating asset disposals. However, chairman Paul Peng cautions that the fourth quarter will be a "weak peak season," as AI-driven demand continues to crowd out memory and CPUs for conventional electronics firms, and although shipments are expected to increase as usual, quarterly revenue will likely see a marked drop.

Taiwan's GIS targets 800G/1.6T AI optics, with laser packaging ramp-up starting 4Q26

Levi Li — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 04:21:06 GMT

GIS is shifting from touch displays to semiconductor optics, with laser packaging entering small-volume production in the fourth quarter of 2026 and full capacity expected by the second or third quarter of 2027. Chairman Hsien-ying Chou said production lines have been installed progressively since the second quarter, supported by incoming equipment and customer-supplied materials. Passive optical components and Micro LED applications are also part of the company's expansion.

SK Hynix-backed Trinity Fab to test chipmaking tools in 2027

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 04:12:18 GMT

Trinity Fab, a semiconductor testing facility backed by SK Hynix and South Korean public bodies, will begin testing chipmaking equipment and materials in October 2027, The Elec reported on November 8. The KRW874.6 billion (approx. US$651 million) facility will operate under SK Hynix's mass-production standards, giving domestic suppliers access to production-grade testing without building their own facilities.

Jensen Huang drawn into spy allegations as China denies complicity

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 04:05:09 GMT

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang’s admission of an extramarital affair with Alice Huang, a former senior executive at Singapore-based Megaspeed, has triggered controversy, while China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has again rejected allegations that she was a Chinese spy.

Wistron ITS eyes 2027 growth driven by semiconductors and gaming

Kevin Wang — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 04:05:00 GMT

Wistron ITS posted strong results in the third quarter of 2026, driven by growth in the semiconductor, gaming, and entertainment industries. According to chairman and CEO Ching Hsiao, the company will prioritize improving its profit structure moving forward as it expands into semiconductors and other new fields, with plans to build a 100-strong team by year-end dedicated to serving semiconductor customers.

Anthropic breach exposes 100+ South Korean enterprise Claude accounts

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 04:01:17 GMT

Anthropic’s generative AI service Claude suffered a data breach affecting more than 100 South Korean enterprise accounts, exposing customer names, email addresses, account IDs, organization IDs, subscription tiers, and usage and spending metrics.

Nokia eyes AI optical interconnect market, potentially challenging Lumentum and Coherent

Yunnie Cheng — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:55:00 GMT

The AI data center optical interconnect market may soon see another heavyweight contender. Roughly a week after Marvell announced a US$1.15 billion acquisition of Lumentum to bolster its AI optical communications portfolio, Nokia is actively evaluating entry into the optical interconnect space and may even supply laser components directly to the market.

Middle East conflict and supply chain strains squeeze global automakers' margins

Willis Ke — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:55:00 GMT

The prolonged Middle East conflict is adding to mounting pressure on the global automotive industry, disrupting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and driving up energy, logistics and raw-material costs. With consumer confidence weakening and vehicle prices already elevated, automakers are finding it increasingly difficult to pass on higher expenses, forcing many to absorb the impact through shrinking profit margins.

South Korea approves advanced display research platform

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:48:41 GMT

South Korea has approved a seven-year national research program to support display technology development and provide companies with shared testing and commercialization facilities. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources said the program will run from 2027 to 2033, with a total budget of KRW368.87 billion (US$272.15 million), including KRW278.9 billion in government funding.

Rebellions calls for govt support to test AI chips in space

Sherri Wang — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:45:00 GMT

Space-based data centers could open a new market for low-power AI chips, but moving computing workloads into orbit presents challenges involving radiation, cooling, and hardware reliability. South Korean AI chip developer Rebellions is calling for government support to help companies establish a track record in space, while researchers recommend adapting existing processors rather than developing new chips from scratch.

Nvidia, SPIL target CPO volume shipments in 2027

Charlene Chen — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:41:37 GMT

AI infrastructure investment is accelerating the shift toward optical connectivity, as rising data-center traffic exposes the power and bandwidth limits of conventional electrical signals. Nvidia and ASE's SPIL are expanding the supply of optical engines for co-packaged optics (CPO), targeting a 15x capacity increase by mid-2027 and a 30x increase by the end of 2028 as CPO moves toward volume shipments.

OLED smartphone panel market faces pressure in 2026, Counterpoint says

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:40:11 GMT

The global smartphone display market faces a weaker 2026, as OLED panel shipments and revenue are forecast to decline, while memory constraints, rising production costs, and shifting demand pressure manufacturers worldwide. The downturn is expected to accelerate competition among suppliers, even as foldable devices, LTPO adoption, and power-efficient technologies create opportunities.

Automotive architecture shifts to zonal control as AI cyber risks rise

Yunnie Cheng — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:38:31 GMT

Automotive electrical/electronic architecture (E/EA) continues to evolve—moving from early distributed control systems to today's mature domain-based architectures, and now ushering in the era of zonal control. However, as AI significantly amplifies attackers' capabilities, automotive cybersecurity is facing renewed scrutiny, with potential vulnerabilities between distinct functional zones emerging as a primary concern.

Samsung SDI reportedly set to lead early battery supply for Boston Dynamics' Atlas

Jingyue Hsiao — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:35:00 GMT

Samsung SDI is expected to provide most of the initial battery supply for Atlas, the humanoid robot developed by Hyundai Motor Group's Boston Dynamics, according to South Korean industry reports. The reported arrangement highlights the importance of battery output, runtime, and charging logistics as the robot moves toward factory use.

Sharp eyes AI server deliveries in Japan as early as March 2027

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:32:14 GMT

Sharp said it could begin delivering its new AI servers to customers as early as March 2027, leveraging parent company Foxconn's procurement and manufacturing capabilities to target Japan's growing AI server market.

Apple's OLED iPad Air targets 2027, SDC leads panel supply

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:28:54 GMT

Apple is reportedly set to launch an OLED iPad Air in the first half of 2027, expanding its OLED tablet lineup. The supply chain expects Samsung Display (SDC) to lead overall OLED iPad panel shipments, while LG Display (LGD) is expected to retain its supply advantage for the iPad Pro. Whether Beijing-based BOE Technology can enter the Air supply chain remains uncertain.

Commentary: How will US midterms and Jensen Huang controversy reshape AI policy?

Charlene Chen — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:23:52 GMT

Recent developments, including the Democratic Party's strong showing in the US midterm elections and calls for Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang to brief Congress on national security matters, have stirred uncertainty over the future direction of AI policy and the AI chip market in the US. Huang has also drawn global media attention after addressing an alleged extramarital affair in an open letter.

Nvidia probe fuels push for China chip curbs, raising risks for Samsung, SK Hynix

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:20:55 GMT

Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix face uncertainty over demand for high-bandwidth memory (HBM) as US lawmakers press for tighter controls on AI chip exports to China following allegations involving Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang.

Novatek faces AI infrastructure squeeze, pins growth ramp-up on new products

Yunnie Cheng — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:17:36 GMT

Novatek Microelectronics, a leading Taiwanese display driver IC (DDI) design house, hosted its quarterly earnings conference last week. Novatek President and Vice Chairman Steve Wang stated that third-quarter 2026 revenue reached the upper end of its guidance, propelled by seasonal stock-up demand from smartphone clients that drove strong shipment growth in small- and medium-sized DDIs. Small- and medium-sized DDIs accounted for 37% of total revenue during the quarter, while system-on-chip (SoC) revenue share declined from 52% in the second quarter to 46%. The quarter-over-quarter compression in gross margin reflected this product-mix shift, as well as the timing lag between rising input costs and product price adjustments.

Phison locks in 70% of its 2027 NAND supply as AI demand surges

Lily Hess — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:12:26 GMT

Phison Electronics CEO Pua Khein-Seng expects AI demand to surge again after the Lunar New Year, tightening NAND Flash supplies and intensifying competition for high-capacity triple-level cell (TLC) and quad-level cell (QLC) products. The company has already secured more than 70% of its targeted 2027 supply.

CXMT chairman's reported DeepSeek investment spotlights China's semiconductor capital network

Levi Li — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:11:24 GMT

Zhu Yiming, chairman of ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT), reportedly participated in Chinese AI startup DeepSeek's second funding round, drawing attention to his semiconductor investment network. Neither DeepSeek nor the reported investors have confirmed the claims, leaving the investment entity, amount, and shareholding structure unclear.

Trump says FBI examining Huang affair as Nvidia faces widening legal scrutiny

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:08:19 GMT

US scrutiny surrounding Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang is expanding across national security, chip export enforcement, and shareholder disclosures, with US President Donald Trump saying the FBI is examining his relationship with an alleged Chinese agent as lawmakers seek answers and investors take the company to court.

NASA launches US$10 billion in lunar transport contracts

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 02:53:21 GMT

NASA is accelerating construction of a lunar south pole base by selecting eight aerospace companies for the second phase of its Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS 2) program. The companies will compete for lunar transport missions over 10 years, with a combined procurement ceiling of US$10 billion.

Chenbro, AES stay optimistic on AI demand despite US midterm volatility

Lily Hess — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 02:29:40 GMT

Two leading server component manufacturers remain optimistic about AI demand despite potential short-term volatility following the US midterm elections. Chenbro Micom CEO Corona Chen said the elections would not derail AI's medium- to long-term development, while Advanced Energy Solution (AES) President Wei-Che Sung said customer demand would remain strong in 2027.

Mitsui Chemicals to acquire JSR for US$11.6 billion, targeting semiconductor materials growth

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 02:28:16 GMT

Mitsui Chemicals plans to acquire semiconductor materials maker JSR in a transaction valued at JPY1.84 trillion (approx. US$11.6 billion), including assumed debt, as it seeks to strengthen its position in the global semiconductor materials market and accelerate a broader business portfolio transformation.

Google expands eighth-generation TPU portfolio to target secure, high-context agentic AI

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 02:26:05 GMT

Google has expanded its eighth-generation TPU portfolio with the announcement of two specialized AI systems—the TPU 8tx for hardware-encrypted confidential compute and the TPU 8i Max for high-density context workloads. Joining the previously released TPU 8t training engine and TPU 8i reasoning engine, this update marks the first time Google has shipped four distinct TPU systems in a single year to serve its frontier research customers.

Exclusive: Designing light for everyone—Wave Photonics seeks to make custom photonic chips accessible

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 02:16:51 GMT

In a Cambridge laboratory, an automated testing machine sits at the end of a process that has traditionally demanded years of specialized engineering: designing a photonic chip, sending it for fabrication, and discovering whether light behaves inside the finished device as simulations predicted.

Column: Nvidia explores PTFE for AI servers amid PFAS concerns

Jingyue Hsiao — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 02:14:45 GMT

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), the material behind the Teflon brand, has become one of the most closely watched materials for advanced electronics, drawing attention at the Open Compute Project (OCP) Global Summit and the Taiwan Printed Circuit Association (TPCA) International Exhibition.

Taiwan's proposed Amazon Leo network would broaden emergency communications

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 02:10:46 GMT

Taiwan's proposed 2027 government budget would fund a low Earth orbit satellite network using Amazon Leo, adding backup communications for critical sites during disasters and emergencies. The plan reflects concern over the island's reliance on submarine cables and seeks to strengthen connectivity for government, response, medical, and other essential services.

Commentary: Why Nvidia's board would struggle to replace Jensen Huang

Lily Hess — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 02:04:44 GMT

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang's personal relationship controversy continues to widen, now spanning US national security, AI chip export controls, and corporate governance.

TIER sees Taiwan growth slowing to 6.45% in 2027

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 02:02:03 GMT

Taiwan's growth is expected to ease in 2027 as a surge in AI-related exports and business investment lifts this year's comparison base. However, continued spending on AI infrastructure should support trade and private investment, the Taiwan Institute of Economic Research (TIER) said.

Commentary: China's emerging semiconductor investment empire takes quieter route to dominance

Levi Li — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 02:01:11 GMT

A decade ago, China's Tsinghua Unigroup alarmed Taiwan's semiconductor industry with an aggressive acquisition campaign. Under then-chairman Zhao Weiguo, the group acquired Spreadtrum Communications and RDA Microelectronics, sought stakes in Powertech, SPIL and ChipMOS, and publicly expressed interest in integrating MediaTek. Its financial firepower and rapid expansion unsettled Taiwanese chipmakers.

Exclusive: Quantum without quantum computers — Quinas bets on quantum tunneling to break AI's memory bottleneck

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:46:35 GMT

As artificial intelligence pushes computing systems toward unprecedented processing demands, another technological bottleneck is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore: the energy and time required to store, retrieve, and move data.

Global smartphone revenue rises despite sharp shipment decline

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:44:02 GMT

Global smartphone revenue rose 3% year on year to US$114 billion in the third quarter of 2026, even as shipments fell 19%, highlighting a worldwide shift toward more expensive devices. Higher prices supported value, but rising memory costs are squeezing manufacturers' margins and threatening affordability, especially in entry-level markets worldwide.

AI demand pushes memory chipmakers to outsource more photomasks, Tekscend says

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:35:04 GMT

Memory chipmakers are outsourcing more photomask production as demand for artificial intelligence (AI) chips strains their in-house capacity, according to Japan's Tekscend Photomask. They continue to make their most advanced extreme ultraviolet (EUV) masks internally while turning to outside suppliers for more conventional masks.

Taiwan begins 6G spectrum prep as 4G licenses expire in 2030

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:32:30 GMT

Taiwan's Ministry of Digital Affairs (MODA) plans to begin preparatory work in 2027 for a potential 6G spectrum release, as licenses for the 700MHz, 900MHz, and 1800MHz bands are due to expire at the end of 2030. The ministry has said the schedule, frequencies, and method for any 6G licensing remain under study and have not been finalized.

KHGEARS posts record October revenue as new product shipments continue

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:27:33 GMT

Precision gearmaker KHGEARS International reported October 2026 consolidated revenue of NT$283 million (US$8.62 million), up 19.08% year on year and a monthly record. Revenue for the first 10 months totaled NT$2.732 billion, up 6.24% from a year earlier and a record for the period.

Environmental engineering and advanced process materials drive Topco's revenue above full-year 2025 level in first 10 months

Charlene Chen — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:22:51 GMT

Topco reported consolidated revenue of NT$8.186 billion (approx. US$249.4 million) for October 2026, up 6.3% month-over-month and 61.2% year-over-year, setting a record high for monthly revenue. Consolidated revenue for the first 10 months of 2026 reached NT$71.215 billion, up 28.6% year-over-year and surpassing the NT$67.584 billion recorded for all of 2025.

7STARLAKE, South Korea's Raion Robotics, builds Taiwan AI platform

Charlene Chen — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:22:46 GMT

Unmanned vehicle systems developer 7STARLAKE announced on November 6 that it will work with South Korean robotics company Raion Robotics and National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) to develop a physical AI and autonomous quadruped robot platform in Taiwan. The project will integrate multisensor data fusion, robot dynamics and terrain-contact simulations through virtual-physical closed-loop validation to strengthen local autonomy for unmanned vehicles.

Trans-Sun Materials Technology sees AI server, robot growth defying US political shifts

Charlene Chen — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:22:40 GMT

Calls to curb artificial intelligence (AI) expansion have intensified after the US Democratic Party's sweeping victory in the midterm elections, but Trans-Sun Materials Technology Chairman Chia-Wang Li said political changes will not derail the AI growth trend. Regulatory measures under Democratic control could slightly delay some AI infrastructure projects, he said, but AI infrastructure remains an irreversible economic trend.

Semiconductor test-interface supplier WinWay revenue falls 11.51% MoM, rises 62.62% YoY

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:22:35 GMT

WinWay Technology, a semiconductor test-interface supplier, reported a slight decline in October revenue as holidays reduced shipping days and customer project adjustments affected deliveries. However, AI demand kept annual growth above 62%, while new projects involving AI, ASICs, GPUs, and CPUs are expected to offset seasonal weakness and support future operations.

Qisda operating profit jumps 44% QoQ in 3Q26

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:22:30 GMT

Qisda’s board approved its third-quarter 2026 financial results, with consolidated revenue rising 8% quarter-over-quarter and operating margin holding above 17%. Net income attributable to the parent company also increased from a year earlier, while earnings per share for the first three quarters reached NT$0.92.

Y-S Electronic tops 2025 revenue in October 2026, expands AI server push

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:22:24 GMT

Y-S Electronic, a subsidiary of Sun Yad Group, reported consolidated revenue of NT$73.271 million (US$2.24 million) in October 2026, up 31.67% year-on-year. Revenue for the first 10 months reached NT$792.871 million, up 23.20% year-on-year and surpassing its full-year 2025 revenue of NT$782.351 million, highlighting continued momentum in its core businesses.

ITRI forecasts global EV sales to grow 11.9% to over 36 million units in 2026; BYD set to join top five automakers

Willis Ke — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:22:19 GMT

Global sales of electrified vehicles, including hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), are forecast to rise 11.9% to more than 36 million units in 2026, even as overall vehicle sales decline 1.4%, reflecting the accelerating shift toward electrification. Electrified vehicles are expected to account for more than 35% of global new-vehicle sales, while China's BYD is poised to enter the world's top five automakers for the first time, according to Richard Hsieh, senior research manager at the Industry, Science and Technology International Strategy Center of Taiwan's government-funded Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI).

Taiwan telecom leader pledges more film, TV investment as OTT competition intensifies

Rodney Chan — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:22:13 GMT

Chunghwa Telecom (CHT) is expanding its investment in film and television content as competition in Taiwan's over-the-top (OTT) market intensifies. The Chunghwa Digital Cultural and Creative Fund (CDCCF), jointly backed by CHT, the Taiwan Creative Content Agency (TAICCA), and E.Sun Bank, began operations in 2026 and recently announced 10 new investments to broaden opportunities for Taiwan's film and television industry through funding, international co-production, and overseas partnerships.

Winbond sees AI data center buildout largely secured through 2028, flags 2029 as possible turning point

Jingyue Hsiao — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:22:08 GMT

Winbond Electronics chairman Arthur Chiao said the AI data center buildout planned by major cloud service providers (CSPs) for 2027 and 2028 is largely secured, with funding, land, power, and infrastructure almost all in place, so there is no need to worry too much about investment freezing in the near term. But 2029 could become a key point for the next downturn, when it remains to be seen whether funding can keep supporting such massive spending, he said.

Winbond to run Infineon flash unit as independent, fabless Spansion brand

Jingyue Hsiao — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:22:02 GMT

Winbond Electronics will revive the Spansion brand for the NOR Flash and F-RAM business it is buying from Infineon Technologies and run it as a fully independent, fabless company, chairman Arthur Chiao said, describing the US$1.12 billion deal as a way to secure top international talent and intellectual property.

Fino raises capital again to dilute Chinese ownership, meet US PFE rules

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:21:57 GMT

Fino, a South Korean company backed by Chinese precursor producer CNGR Advanced Material, will raise about KRW183 billion (approximately US$130 million) through a cash capital increase to fund its lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cathode materials business. The move is widely viewed as another step to reduce Chinese ownership and comply with the US Prohibited Foreign Entity (PFE) rules.

Agility Robotics lists on Nasdaq, faces profit test despite US$300 million order

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:21:51 GMT

Agility Robotics listed on Nasdaq on November 5, becoming the first publicly traded US humanoid robot maker and a key benchmark for assessing the sector’s commercial value. The company raised approximately US$465 million through the listing, but continues to face significant losses during its early commercialization phase.

Phison Electronics' AI business tops 50% of revenue in 3Q26

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:21:46 GMT

Phison Electronics' AI business contributed more than 50% of total revenue in the third quarter of 2026, as demand for AI infrastructure and enterprise storage continued to grow. The company reported record revenue, gross profit, and earnings per share (EPS) for the period, and is targeting continued growth in all three financial metrics through its Phison 3.0 strategy.

Taiwanese engineering company Yankey holds NT$57.1 billion orders, Kumamoto wafer fab project to boost 2027 revenue

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:21:41 GMT

Yankey Engineering’s order backlog reached a record NT$57.1 billion (US$1.74 billion) as of the end of September, with its subcontracting project for the second wafer fab in Kumamoto, Japan, expected to contribute revenue from 2027. The company said strong global AI infrastructure demand, advanced semiconductor processes, advanced packaging, and memory expansion drove its revenue and profit to record levels in the first three quarters of 2026.

Intel targets silicon photonics, in-memory computing beyond GPUs

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:21:36 GMT

As the global semiconductor industry continues to focus on Nvidia, Intel is looking beyond GPUs to determine where next-generation computing architectures will go. In an interview with Japanese publication PC Watch, Intel chief technology officer Pushkar Ranade outlined the company's technology roadmap, spanning advanced process technology, AI accelerators, quantum computing, neuromorphic computing, silicon photonics, in-memory computing, and new materials.

Exclusive: influx of Chinese capital drives gallium oxide substrate price cuts toward 2027

Yunnie Cheng — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:21:30 GMT

Gallium oxide (Ga₂O₃), a compound ultra-wide-bandgap semiconductor material, is poised to hit a critical turning point in 2027. Semiconductor supply chain sources indicate that market attention is currently focused on whether substrate prices will reduce past historical trends. Notably, select material suppliers have already signaled to customers that larger price cuts are on the horizon, drawing keen industry interest.

Winbond chairman urges restraint in memory rally, expects 30-month bonuses as Nuvoton plans succession

Jingyue Hsiao — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:21:20 GMT

Winbond Electronics chairman Arthur Chiao said memory prices and profits should not go any further at this stage, warning that a market in which memory thrives while other industries struggle is bad for consumers and the wider economy.

ePaper manufacturer E Ink to buy manufacturing plant in Taiwan for NT$2.78 billion, teams with Taiflex on AI materials

Jingyue Hsiao — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:21:14 GMT

E Ink Holdings' board on November 6 approved buying land and factory buildings in Taoyuan's Guanyin Industrial Park from Chung Hwa Pulp for NT$2.78 billion (US$84.63 million) before tax, and signed off on a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Taiflex Scientific to jointly target the market for AI high-speed transmission materials.

Singapore fab set to drive VIS growth as AI interposers reshape output

Jingyue Hsiao — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:21:03 GMT

Vanguard International Semiconductor (VIS) said its Singapore wafer fab is expected to become a growth driver in 2027, with capacity nearly sold out, customer commitments secured, and artificial-intelligence interposers projected to generate about half of revenue. The expansion could accelerate, but rising depreciation and fixed costs are expected to pressure profitability.

AI demand points to tighter capacity, higher prices at Taiwanese foundry service Vanguard

Jingyue Hsiao — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:20:57 GMT

Vanguard International Semiconductor expects utilization of its 8-inch mature-node fabs to exceed 90% in the fourth quarter of 2026, as AI data center demand lifts orders for power management ICs and power components. The forecast points to tighter capacity, higher prices, and a growing role for AI revenue in its business.

Research Insight: FIT expands liquid cooling connector lineup for Vera Rubin NVL72

Sherri Wang — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:20:47 GMT

Foxconn Interconnect Technology (FIT) is expanding its lineup of liquid-cooling quick-disconnect (QD) connectors for Nvidia's Vera Rubin NVL72 platform, offering connections at both the server tray and rack levels. The company is incorporating blind-mate and floating connector mechanisms to reduce manual alignment during equipment installation and maintenance as it pursues opportunities in the next generation of AI data center (AIDC) liquid cooling.

South Korea plans first orbital AI data center test for 2028

Sherri Wang — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:20:40 GMT

South Korea plans to develop small, medium, and large data centers in orbit under its K-Moonshot initiative, aiming to conduct its first in-orbit demonstration in 2028 and lay the groundwork for commercial space-based AI services before 2035.

Infineon bets on 800V DC for megawatt AI racks

Sherri Wang — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:20:32 GMT

Rising power demand at AI data centers is driving demand for power semiconductors used in server power supplies, grid equipment, and chip-level power delivery. Infineon Technologies is positioning its silicon (Si), silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN) portfolio for a shift toward 800V DC architectures, solid-state transformers and vertical power delivery, addressing different voltage, power and efficiency requirements as it expands its AI infrastructure business.

Japanese chipmaker Rapidus targets Taiwan’s chip cluster model, plans 3 more Hokkaido plants

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:20:20 GMT

Rapidus President Atsuyoshi Koike said the Japanese chipmaker will use Taiwan as a model for building a semiconductor industry cluster in Hokkaido, while IBM Japan is establishing a new office near Rapidus’ plant to strengthen support for the company.

Horngyu targets global grid market with AI, power integration

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:20:04 GMT

Global AI data center construction and Taiwan Power's NT$564.5 billion (US$17.23 billion) resilient-grid initiative are driving demand for highly reliable power equipment and intelligent management. Smart-power provider Horngyu Electric is integrating hardware and software to capture opportunities in the global power-grid market.

Automotive component maker PMX doubles semiconductor revenue share to 20%

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:19:59 GMT

Automotive powertrain and safety component maker Global PMX reported 3Q26 consolidated revenue of NT$2.417 billion (US$73.76 million), up 5.87% quarter-on-quarter and 24.59% year-on-year. Stronger operating scale and tight cost controls lifted quarterly operating profit to NT$340 million, while net income attributable to the parent company reached NT$271 million, with earnings per share (EPS) of NT$2.36.

Infineon, Solum expand cooperation on HVDC power for AI data centers

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:19:45 GMT

Infineon Technologies and Solum have agreed to expand cooperation on high-voltage direct current (HVDC) power systems for artificial intelligence data centers, as rising computing demand increases pressure on operators worldwide to improve efficiency, power density, and reliability. The partnership will cover intermediate bus converters, battery backup units, and power supply units.

Seoul court rejects LG Chem bid to halt Ronbay unit's cathode output, report says

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:19:39 GMT

A Seoul court has dismissed LG Chem's request for a preliminary injunction that would have halted production and sales of certain cathode materials by JS Energy, the South Korean subsidiary of Chinese cathode maker Ronbay, The Elec reported on November 7, citing industry sources. LG Chem has appealed.

India approves INR75 billion in electronics projects, expanding materials production

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:19:32 GMT

India approved 12 applications involving a proposed investment of INR75.03 billion (US$796.90 million) under its Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS) on November 6, broadening support for domestic materials and manufacturing equipment. The projects are expected to generate production worth INR390.45 billion and create 7,127 direct jobs, the electronics ministry said.

Exclusive: Quantum beyond quantum—Photarix bets on a new era of semiconductor photonics

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:19:25 GMT

A future communications network capable of detecting certain forms of eavesdropping may depend on something remarkably small: a semiconductor device designed to emit individual particles of light.

Lens Technology to start glass substrate pilot line by year-end, eyes Korean chipmakers

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:19:19 GMT

China's Lens Technology plans to build and operate its first through-glass via (TGV) glass substrate pilot line by the end of 2026 and is seeking partnerships with South Korean semiconductor and memory companies as it pushes from smartphone glass into advanced chip packaging. Jiang Nan, the company's China region president, outlined the plans in an interview with ZDNet Korea on October 28 at the C-TOUCH & DISPLAY SHENZHEN 2026 exhibition in Shenzhen, published on November 9.

Exclusive: Quantum Motion makes 10,000-fold leap in chip integration, but qubit control remains the real test

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:19:12 GMT

The race to build powerful quantum computers has long revolved around an unfamiliar set of engineering challenges: maintaining delicate quantum states, operating complex cooling systems, and scaling processors far beyond the capabilities of today's experimental machines.

Inside Huawei's 100% domestic desktop: How China is accelerating supply chain self-reliance

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:19:05 GMT

At the HarmonyOS Office Industry Summit 2026, Huawei introduced the Qingyun HM650, its first HarmonyOS desktop PC built entirely with domestic components. The HM650 represents a major milestone for both Huawei and China's broader technology sector, demonstrating that full-chain industrial localization is transitioning from an ambitious goal into a commercial reality despite tightening US trade restrictions.

Hanwha Semitech taps new CEO as chip equipment sales more than double in 3Q26

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:18:58 GMT

Hanwha Semitech has named chief business officer Kim Jin-woo as its incoming CEO after semiconductor equipment revenue more than doubled in the third quarter of 2026. The South Korean company announced the appointment on November 9 as it moves to expand its high-bandwidth memory (HBM) bonding equipment business.

CoreIntelligence sees imaging shipments fall in November

Lily Hess — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 01:14:26 GMT

CoreIntelligence Holdings (CiHC) reported October 2026 consolidated revenue of approximately NT$3.253 billion (US$99.17 million), down 4% from September and 15% from a year earlier, as weak market conditions continued to weigh on imaging products. The company expects imaging shipments to decline further in November, while energy-saving product shipments should edge up.

Simplo Technology reports lower third-quarter profit as laptop peak season disappoints

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 00:58:06 GMT

Simplo Technology's third-quarter net profit attributable to shareholders fell 27.6% from the previous quarter as laptop demand softened during the traditional peak season and a US customer's poor smartphone yields weighed on operations. The battery-module maker said weak laptop shipments are expected to continue through the first quarter of 2027, while higher component costs may ease in the second half.

Himax sees 4Q26 auto DDI orders plunge

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 00:50:52 GMT

Himax Technologies expects fourth-quarter 2026 revenue decline after automotive customers reduced orders following inventory restocking, highlighting the volatility of semiconductor demand tied to vehicle exports. The display-chip maker forecast sequential revenue falling 22% to 26%, while maintaining that automotive timing-controller sales and longer-term smart-vehicle opportunities remain on a growth path.

Tong Hsing buys Global Testing to become integrated OSAT provider

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 00:34:48 GMT

Tong Hsing Electronic Industries (THEIL), a semiconductor packaging company under the YAGEO Group, said its board has approved the acquisition of a 100% stake in Singapore-listed Global Testing Corporation for approximately SGD76.71 million (US$59.88 million). The deal will take Global Testing private and is intended to transform Tong Hsing from a traditional packaging manufacturer into a comprehensive packaging and testing service provider.

Laster Tech posts third-quarter loss as shortages delay shipments

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 00:34:12 GMT

Taiwanese LED automotive lighting module maker Laster Tech reported a net loss of NT$150 million in the third quarter of 2026, as component shortages disrupted production schedules and left shipments below expectations. Higher depreciation and operating expenses during the initial operation of its new Mexico plant, along with a one-time workforce restructuring charge at its Shanghai plant, also weighed on results.

Systex hits record October revenue on overseas semiconductor expansion

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 00:24:56 GMT

Systex Corporation reported October 2026 consolidated revenue of NT$3.564 billion (US$108.8 million), up 11.64% from NT$3.192 billion a year earlier, as overseas expansion by semiconductor and high-tech manufacturers boosted cross-border IT equipment demand.

Taiwan exports hit record US$96.76 billion in October

DIGITIMES — Tue, 10 Nov 2026 00:23:47 GMT

Taiwan's exports rose 58.9% year on year to a record US$96.76 billion in October, as strong investment in global artificial intelligence infrastructure boosted demand across related supply chains. Imports also set a monthly record at US$68.89 billion, while the Ministry of Finance (MOF) forecast exports would maintain strong growth in the fourth quarter.

Nvidia's Taiwan partners rally despite Jensen probe

DIGITIMES — Mon, 9 Nov 2026 09:57:50 GMT

Shares of Nvidia's major Taiwanese manufacturing partners rose on Monday despite mounting concerns over CEO Jensen Huang's future, suggesting that investors have yet to price in significant disruption to the AI chipmaker's supply chain.