Infineon Technologies AG has announced the closing of the acquisition of GaN Systems Inc. Accordingly, the Ottawa-based company brings with it a broad portfolio of gallium nitride (GaN)-based power conversion solutions and leading-edge application know-how. All required regulatory clearances have been obtained. Thus, GaN Systems has become part of Infineon effective as of the closing.

“GaN technology is paving the way for more energy-efficient and CO 2-saving solutions that support decarbonization,” said Jochen Hanebeck, CEO of Infineon.

Complementary Strengths

In addition, Hanebeck said, “The acquisition of GaN Systems significantly accelerates our GaN roadmap. Moreover, it further strengthens Infineon’s leadership in power systems through mastery of all relevant power semiconductor technologies. We welcome our new colleagues from GaN Systems to Infineon.”

Infineon now has a total of 450 GaN experts and more than 350 GaN patent families, which expands the company’s leading position in power semiconductors and considerably speeds up time-to-market. Both companies’ enjoy complementary strengths in IP and application. Moreover, understanding as well as a well-filled customer project pipeline put Infineon in an excellent position to address various fast-growth applications.

On 2 March 2023, Infineon and GaN Systems announced that the companies had signed a definitive agreement under which Infineon would acquire GaN Systems for US$830 million.

CoolGaN™ – the new power paradigm

Today’s demand for high-performance and low-cost power conversion products comes from consumer expectations for longer battery life. In addition, to have faster charging for their phones, electric vehicles (EVs) development, or power tools.

Moreover, consumers want faster data communication along with powerful artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. Furthermore, delivered at lower cost from the vast network of hyperscale data centers, telecom server farms, and upcoming 5G communication towers.

However, while power semiconductors have historically used silicon substrates, silicon semiconductors have limitations when it comes to high voltages. For this reason, the use of other materials such as GaN is increasing instead of silicon.

GaN technology companies have developed innovative gallium nitride (GaN) technology that offers higher switching frequencies while keeping losses at very low levels.

These developments in GaN technology by semiconductor manufacturers offer longer battery life and faster charging for mobile phones, electric vehicles (EVs), and power tools. Moreover, faster data communication capabilities.