GlobalFoundries Acquires MIPS as Another RISC-V Player Falls

According to reports, GlobalFoundries has announced its strategic plan to acquire processor architecture pioneer MIPS, highlighting growing uncertainties in the RISC-V ecosystem. This move follows several notable developments in the RISC-V space, including Codasip's decision to put itself up for sale and Esperanto Technologies halting development of its 1088-core RISC-V accelerator chip—factors believed to have played a role in GlobalFoundries' due diligence process.

Despite the acquisition, MIPS will continue to operate as an independent entity, focusing on delivering core solutions for autonomous driving, industrial automation, data centers, and intelligent edge computing. According to GlobalFoundries, this acquisition will expand its custom IP portfolio and enhance its ability to differentiate its semiconductor process technologies through advanced IP and software capabilities.

The acquisition reflects a broader industry trend: processor IP, once viewed as a major driver of ecosystem strength, is increasingly becoming a foundational yet commoditized technology. Financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed, and the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Completion is expected in the second half of 2025.

MIPS, once a pioneer in RISC processor architecture developed by Stanford University’s John Hennessey and Chris Rowen, has undergone a series of ownership changes over the past decade. It was initially acquired by Silicon Graphics Inc. (SGI) in 1992, later spun off, and eventually bought by Imagination Technologies in 2013. Following further transitions—including ownership under Tallwood Ventures and Wave Computing—MIPS was re-established in 2020, shifting its focus to the open RISC-V architecture.

MIPS CEO Sameer Wasson commented, “Joining GlobalFoundries marks a new chapter for MIPS. With GF’s globally secure and reliable manufacturing network and its proven innovation capabilities, we're positioned to accelerate product development and unlock new opportunities in physical AI and high-efficiency computing platforms.”

Recently, MIPS introduced its Atlas core family after underwhelming reception of its earlier eVocore P8700 and I8500 series. It also launched Atlas Explorer, a virtual platform aimed at optimizing performance, power, and area (PPA)—similar to Codasip's design optimization tools.

GlobalFoundries President and COO Niels Anderskouv added, “MIPS brings decades of experience delivering scalable compute IP for performance-critical applications. This acquisition aligns with market demands for flexible, RISC-V-based AI platforms. Coupled with our differentiated manufacturing capabilities, it will enable customers to develop cutting-edge solutions across automotive, industrial, and data infrastructure sectors.”