SiCarrier has unveiled plans to develop ASML-compatible lithography machines by 2026 at SEMICON China. The company, serving major clients such as SMIC and Hua Hong Group, aims to enhance its product offerings and expand its research facilities. SiCarrier’s notable achievements include a recent patent for 5nm chips and a diverse portfolio of semiconductor manufacturing equipment.
SiCarrier has emerged prominently at SEMICON China, revealing its product roadmap. The Chinese semiconductor equipment firm has developed lithography machines designed for 300-mm wafers at 28nm processes and aims to introduce a next-generation version that is compatible with ASML and Applied Materials by 2026, according to reports from anue.
According to Zhao Min, SiCarrier’s Market Director, the company has established a dedicated team focused on ensuring that its equipment aligns with those utilized by domestic fabrication plants. Furthermore, Chen Dong, the company’s CTO, indicated that SiCarrier is collaborating with various fabs to establish joint laboratories and anticipates disclosing its first commercial orders by the fourth quarter of 2025.
SiCarrier boasts an impressive client list, including prominent foundry companies such as SMIC and Hua Hong Group, and has already commenced production of etching equipment for power semiconductor lines, as reported by anue. The firm also has plans to expand its research and development centers to over ten cities in the next three years, while establishing service facilities in Europe and Southeast Asia.
Founded in 2022, SiCarrier has quickly garnered attention for its technological advancements. Dai Jun, the company’s technology chief, is also closely affiliated with China’s Big Fund II and holds a board position at SMIC. Moreover, earlier reports note that SiCarrier is a state-supported semiconductor equipment developer working in collaboration with Huawei.
SiCarrier made headlines this year after securing a patent for producing 5nm chips using DUV tools, which is notably connected to Huawei’s 7nm chip in the Mate 60 Pro. At SEMICON China, SiCarrier showcased a comprehensive array of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, encompassing metrology and inspection systems, while keeping its lithography machines undisclosed. Nikkei also reports that the company already possesses lithographic machines capable of processing 300-mm wafers at and above the 28nm technology node.
Although SiCarrier did not publicly display its lithography machines, the company offers a diverse range of tools that support nearly all stages of front-end semiconductor production, including metrology, inspection, and testing equipment, as highlighted by Tom’s Hardware.
In summary, SiCarrier has outlined a strategic plan to launch ASML-compatible lithography tools by 2026 while enhancing its production capabilities and client collaborations with major Chinese foundries. The company’s expansion plans encompass research centers and service facilities across multiple regions. As it continues to innovate within the semiconductor industry, SiCarrier showcases a commitment to positioning itself as a key player in advanced semiconductor manufacturing.
Original Source: www.trendforce.com
