ST & Samsung: First 18nm Auto MCU, 2025 Launch

STMicroelectronics (ST) has recently unveiled a pioneering collaboration with Samsung's semiconductor foundry division to introduce the industry's first MCU control chip designed for automotive applications, utilizing cutting-edge 18nm process technology. Set for production in the latter half of 2025, this groundbreaking chip targets the burgeoning automotive semiconductor market.

Belonging to STMicroelectronics' esteemed "STM32" series, this chip employs FD-SOI process technology and integrates embedded phase-change memory (ePCM). Featuring an Arm Cortex M core, it boasts advanced machine learning capabilities and digital signal processing (DSP) functions.

This product represents a significant milestone as the first MCU utilizing process technology below 20nm in the industry. The collaboration between Samsung and STMicroelectronics, which commenced in 2012 within the 32nm/28nm semiconductor foundry domain and saw the transfer of 28nm FD-SOI process technology in 2014, has culminated in the successful development of this 18nm product.

Anticipated to reach customers in the latter half of 2024 for sampling, with mass production slated for the latter half of 2025, the STM32 chip is poised to make a significant impact in the automotive sector.

FD-SOI technology, characterized by an ultra-thin insulating layer on silicon chips, promises reduced electrical leakage, enhanced speed and efficiency, and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional CMOS processes.

STMicroelectronics reaffirms its commitment to further advancing and supplying FD-SOI and PCM technologies to cater to the evolving needs of automotive and aerospace applications in the future.