GlobalFoundries Acquires Synopsys’ Processor IP to Accelerate Physical AI

GlobalFoundries (GF) is acquiring Synopsys’ ARC Processor IP Solutions business to bolster its capabilities in physical AI. The acquisition includes product lines like ARC-V, ARC-Classic, and ARC NPX NPU, alongside associated software tools. This strategic move will accelerate GF’s physical AI roadmap and expand its custom silicon solutions portfolio.

GlobalFoundries Acquires Synopsys’ ARC Processor IP Solutions

GlobalFoundries’ acquisition of Synopsys’ ARC Processor IP Solutions includes several key product lines—ARC-V, ARC-Classic, ARC VPX-DSP, and ARC NPX NPU—expanding GF’s portfolio beyond its current offerings. These additions will be integrated with MIPS, another GlobalFoundries company, creating a comprehensive processor IP suite focused on physical AI applications. This consolidation aims to speed up development cycles for customers by offering both intellectual property and associated software tools. The deal is expected to finalize in the second half of 2026, pending regulatory approvals, and will strengthen GF’s position in delivering scalable, energy-efficient processing solutions.

Synopsys’ technologies, encompassing high-performance to ultra-low power cores, will complement GF’s manufacturing capabilities and a strong patent portfolio. Ultimately, the acquisition intends to lower barriers to entry for customers innovating in areas like wearables, robotics, and AI-driven consumer products.

MIPS S8200 NPU Targets Real-Time Physical AI Applications

The MIPS S8200 NPU is currently available for sampling, specifically designed to power real-time, on-device artificial intelligence for applications in the physical world. This processor focuses on the “autonomous edge” – enabling AI directly within devices like transportation systems and robotics, rather than relying on cloud connectivity. It delivers a software-first RISC-V NPU, positioning it to facilitate the development of AI-driven platforms needing immediate, localized processing capabilities. MIPS, as a GlobalFoundries company, intends the S8200 to be integral in expanding AI into sectors like aerospace, automotive, and industrial robotics.

This NPU is intended for event-driven products, emphasizing responsiveness and real-time operation. The development highlights a focus on standards-based computing platforms built in collaboration with customers prioritizing software solutions, demonstrating a commitment to a flexible and adaptable AI ecosystem.

Expanded RISC-V Portfolio: ARC-V, ARC-Classic, and VPX-DSP

GlobalFoundries’ acquisition expands its RISC-V portfolio with the addition of ARC-V, ARC-Classic, and VPX-DSP processor IP lines. These technologies encompass a range of compute cores, from high-performance to ultra-low power, offering scalable processing solutions. The inclusion of VPX-DSP specifically addresses needs for digital signal processing, crucial for applications like audio, communications, and sensor data analysis. The ASIP (Application-Specific Instruction Set) processor tools, including ASIP Designer and ASIP Programmer, further support customization. This broadened offering aims to accelerate development cycles and enable faster time-to-market for customers creating AI-driven devices.

Strategic Collaborations Advance AI-Driven Manufacturing & RISC-V Adoption

This move integrates processor lines like ARC-V and ARC NPX NPU with existing MIPS technologies, creating a comprehensive IP suite focused on efficient processing solutions for devices like wearables and robotics. Combining these assets aims to accelerate custom silicon development and deliver scalable, energy-efficient compute options. Furthering this advancement, GlobalFoundries is collaborating with companies like Siemens to deploy AI-driven manufacturing processes. These strategic partnerships strengthen semiconductor performance and support the expansion of AI into real-world applications, while also enabling faster time-to-market for customers through IP licensing and software tools. Quintauris is also working with MIPS to integrate their solutions, demonstrating a broad industry push toward RISC-V adoption.