Generic DDR shortage persists as smartphone brands adopt multi-pronged strategies

The smartphone industry is facing ongoing challenges from soaring memory prices, with many expecting the market to contract in 2026. Mid- and low-tier smartphones are projected to suffer the most significant impact. Retailers report that the persistent shortage and price surge of generic DDR memory remain unresolved. Smartphone manufacturers have responded with various strategic measures, including adjusting pricing and downgrading specifications for mid- and low-end models.

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Taiwan’s Mighty Hornet IV drone completes US integration test, aims for full local production

Taiwan’s National Chung-Shan Institute of Science & Technology (NCSIST) and US-based Kratos Defense & Security Solutions have announced the successful completion of system integration testing for the Mighty Hornet IV high-speed attack drone in the United States. Following further flight tests and validations, the project plans to incorporate Taiwanese suppliers into the development chain with a goal of achieving 100% Taiwan-made production.

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Qualcomm’s 2nm tape-out marks India’s arrival in cutting-edge chip design

According to ANI and IANS, Qualcomm Technologies has completed the tape-out of its 2-nanometre semiconductor design with significant contributions from its engineering centres in India, underscoring the country’s rising importance in the global race toward next-generation chip technologies and aligning with New Delhi’s push to strengthen domestic semiconductor design capabilities.

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India, Malaysia forge strategic pact on chips, energy and digital payments

India and Malaysia used Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to Kuala Lumpur to signal a step-change in their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, unveiling wide-ranging cooperation across semiconductors, clean energy, digital finance, and security that carries implications for supply chains, the Indo-Pacific balance, and South–South economic integration.

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India-US trade deal offers tariff cuts, capital goods access to reshape supply chains

New Delhi and Washington have established an interim trade deal framework targeting electronics, intellectual property, and supply chains. The Economic Times reports that this move aims to enhance competitiveness and improve supply chain resilience. This agreement follows discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, focusing on reducing trade barriers between the two nations.

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Taiwan posts fastest growth in 15 years as AI boom drowns out hollowing-out fears

Taiwan’s economy expanded 8.63% in 2025, its strongest growth in 15 years, as the island’s semiconductor-driven supply chain continued to underpin global demand for AI computing. Minister of Economic Affairs Ming-hsin Kung said on February 5 that despite a high base effect from the previous year, Taiwan is expected to maintain resilience and flexibility into 2026.

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South Korea bets on AI and electric powertrains to shape cars of future

The South Korean government announced plans to invest KRW464.5 billion (approximately US$316 million) in the automotive sector in 2026, targeting research and development as well as infrastructure upgrades to accelerate the country’s transition to next-generation vehicles. Key priorities will include end-to-end artificial intelligence (E2E AI) for autonomous driving, software-defined vehicle (SDV) standard systems, and extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) powertrains.

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