Quest Global, a global product engineering services leader currently eyeing an IPO, has announced a strategic partnership with Japan’s state-backed semiconductor manufacturer Rapidus Corporation. This collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Cooperation, marks a significant milestone in both companies’ growth trajectories as they aim to accelerate innovation in the AI semiconductor space.
Focus on Advanced 2nm Chip Development
Under this agreement, Rapidus will become Quest Global’s semiconductor foundry partner, leveraging its advanced 2-nanometer (nm) gate-all-around (GAA) manufacturing process. This will enable Quest Global to offer cutting-edge design and manufacturing solutions tailored to meet the growing industry demand for high-performance, low-power AI chips.
Quest Global’s Expanding Footprint
The alliance comes at a pivotal time for both companies. Quest Global Services, known for its expertise in ultra-low-power AI chip designs and products across diverse sectors, including automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and telecommunications, is expanding its footprint. With over 21,000 engineers and operations across 20 countries, the company’s portfolio features pioneering designs in AR/VR wearables, smart helmets, software-defined vehicle engines, and AI-integrated consumer electronics.
Rapidus Accelerates Production Plans
On the other hand, Rapidus is fast-tracking its capabilities with its proprietary Rapid and Unified Manufacturing Service (RUMS) model. The RUMS framework promises shorter development cycles and quicker time-to-market through integrated front-end and back-end processes. The company plans to commence pilot production of 2nm chips at its facility in Chitose, Hokkaido, by April 2025, with mass production slated for 2027.
Joint Vision for a Virtual IDM Ecosystem
The partnership follows a virtual integrated device manufacturer (IDM) model, allowing fabless companies to benefit from seamless design-to-manufacture solutions. The company’s access to Rapidus’s manufacturing capabilities will enable clients to push boundaries in AI-driven applications while Rapidus gains exposure to Quest Global’s extensive global customer base.
Leadership Perspectives on the Collaboration
Ajit Prabhu, Co-founder and CEO of Quest Global Services, highlighted the strategic nature of this tie-up: “As we enter the transformational era of generative AI, the semiconductor industry needs a new framework for stable, agile design and manufacturing of advanced-node chips. Our partnership with Rapidus will enable exactly that, positioning us to deliver game-changing solutions worldwide.”
Dr. Atsuyoshi Koike, CEO of Rapidus, emphasized the partnership’s mutual benefits: “Quest Global has shown tremendous affinity for our quick-turnaround manufacturing, especially through RUMS. Their feedback will enhance our product development, and access to their vast customer network will solidify our presence in global markets.”
Market Expansion and Future Plans
The collaboration is not just about technological integration but also about market expansion. Quest Global’s announcement of potentially deploying over 500 engineers to Rapidus further demonstrates its commitment to reducing design cycles by up to 50%. Meanwhile, Rapidus, backed by eight major Japanese corporations, including Toyota and Sony, aims to re-establish Japan as a formidable player in the semiconductor industry.
IPO and Strategic Positioning
As Quest Global inches closer to its IPO, this strategic partnership with Rapidus signals its intent to strengthen its positioning in the semiconductor and AI technology ecosystem. The move is expected to open new market avenues and boost investor confidence as the company prepares to enter public markets.
Looking Ahead: Shaping the AI Chip Market
In an increasingly competitive AI semiconductor landscape, this alliance between Quest Global and Rapidus is poised to deliver next-generation chip solutions for a wide range of emerging applications, from smart devices to autonomous systems, thereby shaping the future of intelligent technologies.
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