Infineon Technologies AG, a leading semiconductor company, has announced the acquisition of 3db Access AG, a Zurich-based startup specializing in energy-efficient Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology. This acquisition enhances Infineon’s portfolio in secure and intelligent access control, precise localization, and improved pulse measurement. 3db is already a preferred IP provider for major automotive manufacturers, making it a strategic addition to Infineon’s offerings. The integration of UWB with Infineon’s existing connectivity technologies will enable secure access, accurate indoor positioning, and presence detection for IoT applications.
Infineon strengthens IoT capabilities with UWB integration
The addition of UWB to Infineon’s existing connectivity technologies, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®/Bluetooth® Low Energy, and NFC, allows for initial IoT applications such as secure access and authentication. Furthermore, UWB enables precise indoor localization and navigation, as well as presence detection through UWB radar implementations.
The acquisition of 3db by Infineon Technologies AG allows for the acceleration of Infineon’s IoT roadmap, specifically in the area of secure and connected devices. With 3db’s expertise in Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology, the rollout of UWB will enable the development of various applications in the automotive, industrial, and consumer IoT sectors. This acquisition strengthens Infineon’s position as a leader in secure and intelligent access control, precise localization, and improved impulse measurement.
Infineon Technologies AG has acquired 100 percent of the shares of 3db Access AG through a recent takeover. The purchase price remains undisclosed.
The increasing demand for UWB-enabled devices in the smartphone industry has prompted Infineon to leverage the key strengths of Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology for both smartphones and cars. Infineon aims to enable independent integration of UWB technology into energy-efficient IoT devices. As part of Infineon, 3db Access AG, led by CEO Boris Danev, is determined to expand the range of secure localization and sensor solutions for critical IoT and automotive applications.
In the rapidly evolving UWB market, differentiation among providers is not just limited to their product offerings but also extends to their research activities. The collaboration between Infineon and 3db brings together their collective experience, which will provide customers with added value. 3db, being a spin-off from ETH Zurich and maintaining a strategic partnership with the university, further enhances its research capabilities and strengthens its position in the market.
Infineon is committed to further expanding this cooperation and intensifying joint efforts in the relevant standardization bodies in the field of secure localization and sensing. In addition to having a broad market access, Infineon also benefits from extensive R&D activities. Currently, Infineon holds more than 31,000 patents worldwide with 59 R&D locations, and invests 13 percent of its revenue annually in research and development.
Infineon’s acquisition of 3db Access AG solidifies its position as a leader in the UWB market. With 3db’s integrated UWB solutions, Infineon now offers encrypted, highly energy-efficient, and high-precision options for distance measurement and sensor technology. These solutions have a wide range of applications, including secure access control, verified proximity control for mobile payments, and highly accurate real-time localization of smart connected devices.
The acquisition of 3db Access AG by Infineon allows the company to expand its portfolio in secure and intelligent access control, precise localization, and enhanced pulse measurement. This acquisition sets the foundation for the development of further applications in the automotive, industrial, and consumer IoT sectors. The Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology brings unique features such as low power consumption, improved communication security, and support for complex antenna configurations. By integrating UWB into its products, Infineon can provide its customers with innovative and advanced solutions.
The acquisition of 3db Access AG by Infineon is a significant step towards fully harnessing the potential of Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology and driving the development of IoT applications. By combining the strengths of both companies, Infineon will further establish itself as a leading provider of solutions for secure and connected devices. Customers will benefit from the unique features of UWB technology, such as low power consumption and improved security, as well as from the extensive experience and expertise of Infineon and 3db. The future of the UWB market is promising, and Infineon is well-positioned to capitalize on this growth.
