Our strategy

IQE is focused upon delivering enabling technology which meets performance and price points, and which can be delivered reliably, on-time, and with the ability to scale rapidly.

Progress on strategy

Maintain and grow IQE’s position

Connect

Description

IQE has a long legacy in wireless technology, in applications ranging from smartphones to 5G infrastructure. We are committed to enabling the smart connected devices of the future and seamlessly aiding real time data exchange, enhancing efficiency and functionality.

Key objectives

  • Protect existing business while diversifying customer base through the establishment of strategic partnerships
  • Leverage our technical leadership gained over decades of manufacturing leading-edge epitaxy for front-end modules

Progress in 2023

  • Partnership with Asia based foundry to supply Tier 1 Android smartphone OEMs
  • Increased engagement with leading US wireless customers with sampling and product qualification
  • Launch of industry first 6” InP Laser Platform for AI and data centre applications

Sense

Description

Advanced sensing technologies utilise sophisticated methods to gather and interpret data with precision, enabling applications in fields such as autonomous vehicles, healthcare, 3D facial recognition, security and environmental monitoring for enhanced decision-making and situational awareness. As a leader in cutting-edge sensing technology, IQE is committed to maintaining technology leadership in this market to serve an expanding list of new applications.

Key objectives

  • Maintain our market-leading position in 3D Sensing
  • Develop next-generation sensing products, focusing on larger wafer diameters and long-wavelength technology
  • Key engagements with partners who are integral to the LiDAR supply chain

Progress in 2023

  • Multi-year strategic agreement with global Tier 1 consumer electronics OEM for the development of next-generation 3D Sensing applications
  • R&D partnerships with global market leaders for next-generation products

Diversify

Power

Description

A critical element of IQE’s diversification strategy is to enter the power electronics market, which is forecasted to experience large growth. Power market applications span various industries including renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, consumer electronics, data centres and industrial automation, playing a crucial role in efficient energy conversion and control.

Key objectives

  • Leverage longstanding Gallium Nitride (GaN) capability for RF applications
  • Develop leading-edge GaN-based power products for voltages up to 650 volts (E/D mode)
  • Standardise and scale to ensure cost-effective volume manufacture
  • Establish unique commercial engagements so that IQE products can enable virtual vertical integration
  • Engage with market leaders to create mutually beneficial agreements for improved value capture in power electronics

Progress in 2023

  • Installed new GaN Power capacity in UK and US
  • Sampled multiple Tier 1 Power Electronics customers for 650 volt (E/D mode)

Display

Description

The microLED revolution is poised to transform display technology by offering unparalleled visual performance, enhanced energy efficiency, and compact form factors across a spectrum of applications, from consumer electronics to augmented reality. The display market is the second focus area of IQE’s diversification strategy, and we have partnered with microLED technology customers to ensure we are enabling the future of display.

Key objectives

  • Partner with technology leaders to create mutually beneficial agreements that enable value capture
  • Create a full portfolio of materials solutions for high-performance red-green-blue (RGB) displays
  • Diverse product offerings that enable both pick and place and tri-colour manufacturing
  • Focus on large diameter substrates (greater than or equal to 200mm) for GaAs and GaN-based products

Progress in 2023

  • Demonstrated red and blue GaAs-based emitters on GaN and GaAs
  • Continued product development against technology roadmaps in conjunction with strategic industry partners

*Report on strategic progress as detailed in our Annual Report and Accounts 2023.