As the demand for smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient electronics continues to grow, gallium nitride (GaN) technology is emerging as a game-changer, particularly in power-intensive applications like AI datacenters, electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and next-gen consumer electronics. Now, two industry leaders, STMicroelectronics and Innoscience, have announced a strategic partnership that aims to accelerate the global adoption and production of GaN semiconductors.
STMicroelectronics is already known for its wide-ranging portfolio across silicon and silicon carbide. Now, though, the company sees an opportunity in expanding its GaN footprint through a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) with Innoscience, a company that has pioneered mass production of 8-inch GaN-on-silicon wafers. The agreement is centered around co-developing next-generation GaN power devices, while fostering a more resilient and flexible supply chain by sharing front-end manufacturing capacity — ST in Europe and Innoscience in China.
This partnership is particularly significant in the context of today’s increasingly electrified world. GaN’s superior material properties enable lower power conversion losses, higher efficiency, and more compact system designs. Whether it’s a laptop charger, solar inverter, or an EV powertrain, GaN-based devices promise to reduce size, weight, cost, and CO₂ emissions — all while boosting performance.
For ST, the move signals a faster roadmap toward GaN adoption. The company can now complement its traditional silicon and SiC offerings with cutting-edge GaN solutions that are more suitable for modern applications. Meanwhile, Innoscience stands to benefit from accessing ST’s global manufacturing footprint and broader market reach.
Together, the companies aim to deliver a new generation of GaN-based power systems, which are not only more efficient but also built on a supply chain model that can withstand geopolitical shifts and rising demand.
With over a billion GaN devices already shipped by Innoscience and ST’s vast global network of partners and customers, this collaboration could play a pivotal role in bringing GaN technology into the mainstream, shaping a more sustainable and electrified future in the process.
