IBM Backs Promising Japanese Chip Startup for Strategic Importance

IBM is throwing its support behind Japan's chipmaking startup, Rapidus Corp., considering it vital for securing long-term global chip supply. Rapidus aims to fabricate 2-nanometer chips at scale by the latter half of this decade, with the support of IBM's chip design and process technology. The venture, backed by major Japanese electronics firms and led by industry veterans, is working to catch up with industry leader Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. IBM is prioritizing resources for Rapidus, even sacrificing some capacity for other research, and is open to helping the startup secure further deals with major chip firms. The collaboration could provide a third option for advanced chip manufacturing, addressing the industry's struggle to meet growing demand.