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Daily · Friday, January 16, 2026

AI and advanced manufacturing drive semiconductor innovation at Photonics West 2026

Today, the spotlight is on Photonics West 2026, where companies like III-V Epi and Lumentum are unveiling cutting-edge technologies. With AI applications surging, the semiconductor sector is racing to meet new demands, from custom wafer designs to ultrafast laser solutions.

Key Stories

III-V Epi exhibiting at Photonics West 2026

Summary

III-V Epi is showcasing its epitaxy manufacturing services for custom compound semiconductor wafers.

Why this matters

• Custom wafer designs are crucial for specialized applications in emerging markets.
• Fast-turnaround services can significantly enhance production efficiency.
• Strengthening capabilities in epitaxy manufacturing positions III-V Epi favorably against competitors.

Lumentum showcasing ultrafast and UV laser platforms for precision manufacturing

Summary

Lumentum is presenting its high-power laser solutions aimed at advanced manufacturing applications.

Why this matters

• These innovations are designed to improve precision and throughput in manufacturing processes.
• The focus on UV lasers highlights the shift towards more sophisticated manufacturing techniques.
• Enhanced reliability in industrial applications can lead to broader adoption of these technologies.

AI workloads demand smarter SoC interconnect design

Summary

Engineers are optimizing SoC interconnects for AI workloads using automation algorithms.

Why this matters

• Improved interconnect designs are essential for handling the increasing complexity of AI applications.
• Automation in design reduces time-to-market for new AI chips.
• This trend signals a shift towards more intelligent design tools in semiconductor engineering.

Lead times growing with some lines on allocation

Summary

Lead times for semiconductor components have increased significantly, indicating a tightening supply chain.

Why this matters

• Extended lead times can disrupt production schedules across various industries, especially automotive and AI.
• Allocation issues may force companies to reassess their supply chain strategies.
• This trend underscores the ongoing challenges in semiconductor manufacturing capacity.

Editor's Picks

Zero maintenance asset tracking via energy harvesting

Summary

The potential for batteryless energy-harvested tags for real-time asset tracking is explored.

Why this matters

• This technology could revolutionize IoT applications by minimizing maintenance costs.
• Enhanced power management ICs are crucial for the viability of these systems.
• Adoption of such solutions can lead to more sustainable tracking systems in various industries.

Why Quobly, STMicro, Soitec See Quantum as a Manufacturing Challenge

Summary

Key players are addressing the challenges of scalable manufacturing in quantum computing.

Why this matters

• The complexities of quantum technology manufacturing could hinder its commercial viability.
• Collaborative efforts among industry leaders may drive innovation in this nascent field.
• Overcoming these challenges is essential for the future of quantum computing applications.