ARM, GlobalFoundries work on 28nm HKMG SoC

ARM and GlobalFoundries are embarking on a long-term strategic relationship to provide their mutual customers with an innovative SoC programme. The agreements covers a broad development range including processor implementation and circuit optimisation for a robust enablement programme geared towards next-generation applications.

The SoC enablement programme, built around a full suite of ARM Physical IP, Fabric IP and Processor IP, will deliver customers design flexibility on GlobalFoundries' advanced high-k metal gate (HKMG) semiconductor manufacturing capabilities. The collaborative efforts of the partnership will initially focus on enabling SoC products which use the low-power and high-performance ARM Cortex -A9 processor on GlobalFoundries 28nm HKMG process. The characteristics of GlobalFoundries 28nm "Gate First" HKMG technology is optimised for high performance processing with minimal leakage making it a suitable choice for advanced mobile solutions.

"This collaboration with GlobalFoundries and their commitment to delivering leading edge technology makes them an ideal partner to accelerate the adoption of ARM processor based technology at 28nm," said Warren East, CEO, ARM.

"This relationship further advances our strong focus to partner with industry leaders in processor design to deliver manufacturing and technology excellence at the leading edge," said Doug Grose, CEO, GlobalFoundries. "This highly complementary partnership leverages ARM's architectural leadership along with GlobalFoundries advanced technology to enable the deployment of 28nm SoC designs with exceptional performance for next-generation consumer devices."