Fujifilm is rapidly expanding its production of semiconductor materials in Kyushu, Japan. In addition to increasing the production capacity of chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) slurries at its factory near TSMC’s Kumamoto plant, the company will also expand production of post-CMP cleaners in Oita Prefecture by the spring of 2026.
Smartphone SoC innovation has increasingly centered on boosting performance and improving power efficiency. However, unlike the pre-pandemic era, where leaps in technology were frequent, recent progress has been more incremental, fueling the perception that SoC makers are fine-tuning existing tech rather than introducing groundbreaking advancements.
Apple has scrapped its plans to develop a Micro LED smartwatch in 2024, dealing a blow to the technology’s immediate prospects. Yet, the scene at CES 2025 suggests Micro LED remains a hotbed of innovation, with companies pressing ahead on new products and breakthroughs. Apple’s retreat may signal challenges, but it hasn’t dampened industry momentum.