Semico Research, Phoenix, released its Q2 update showing an expected increase in worldwide semiconductor wafer demand of 12.8% in 2018. Units are expected to grow by 7.2%. The forecast is based on moderate smartphone sales with a possible return to lower memory prices in the second half of the year. This, among other market issues, will push 2018 wafer demand to over 115 million units in 300mm equivalents according to Semico’s newest report, Semico Wafer Demand Update Q2 2018 . (MA111-18).
“Semiconductor manufacturers are rolling out new products targeted at artificial intelligence applications. Products require both the most advanced technologies for AI training functions as well as potentially high-volume products for edge devices,” says Joanne Itow, Manager Manufacturing Research for Semico. “On the other side of the technology spectrum, mature processes for sensors and analog products such as biometric sensors, RF and power management continue to be in high demand aided by growth in Internet of Things (IoT) applications along with more ‘smart devices’ that are beginning to build in algorithms that are the precursor to full-fledged AI devices.”
Other key findings for 2018 include: an expected 18.9% increase in 2018 NAND (“not-and” logic) gate revenues; MCU (microcontroller) revenues are expected to exceed $17 billion; a 4% increase in demand for the Total Communication MOS (metal-oxide semiconductor) Logic wafer; and a 20.4% expected growth in Sensor units.
