Semiconductor intellectual property is the design identification of the logic, cell, or chip configuration of part or whole microprocessor. In a world where chips force several of the everyday gadgets, these semiconductor outlines are omnipresent. Semiconductor IP can stay exclusive to the firm that invented the design or the contriving body might license their outlines to other firms. The intellectual property of a semiconductor comprises any identification, source code, or alternate details essential for manufacturing a provided semiconductor. The semiconductor intellectual property (IP) market size is expanding as the appropriate patents are in place and the accurate proof to reinforce the declaration of those patents, the inventor of a provided semiconductor can safeguard their outline against patent violation while converting their outlines into a revenue stream.
As per the recent analysis by Polaris Market Research, the global semiconductor intellectual property (IP) market size was valued at USD 6.93 billion in 2023 and is predicted to reach USD 14.28 billion by 2032. Also, the study states that the market reveals a robust 8.4% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) over the predicted timeframe, 2024-2032.
Semiconductor Intellectual Property Design
At each phase, superior semiconductor design generates exhaustive and accurate documentation for both the manufacturer and usage of the semiconductors. The semiconductor outline is IP-propelled. The affirmation generated in the course of the design and succeeding contriving of a semiconductor is treasured and a probable source of revenue. The formation, maintenance, and exhibition of the semiconductor IP can be patented. Once patented, the procedure included in duplicating a provided semiconductor might be permitted. In order to conserve possession of the semiconductor IP, the patent and connected proof of IP holding must be created and sustained appropriately.
Hard IP vs Soft IP
Hard IP is the certificates, outlines, mandate matter, and chunks of code fabricated in the course of the outline and innovation process of a provided semiconductor. This type of IP can be replicated and issued. It renders it viable for the firms to produce semiconductors of similar design. Patents can be retrieved out of hard IP and manipulated as revenue streams. It is crucial to generate proper patents to safeguard IP against uncertified replication or to generate scope to license the IP as a revenue stream.
Soft IP is an affidavit that may be made in the course of manufacture or usage of a provided semiconductor, affidavits such as the usage or conservation logs or records of software functioning a provided microprocessor or microchip or testimonial documents such as user manuals or testing handbooks. The semiconductor intellectual property (IP) market sales are soaring as converting this soft IP into tangible citation is a procedure known as hardening. Acquiring soft IP can be the main constituent of demonstrating that a firm is using a patented semiconductor. Acquiring soft IP as proof of a given firm utilizing a specific semiconductor needs a skillful hand and a profound comprehension of where to observe and how to garner the chunks together to complete the picture.
Growth Drivers
The global semiconductor IP market size is encountering growth because of the growing acquisition and advancement of technologically progressive consumer electronics globally. As per the Center for National Interest Organization, the market was estimated at roughly USD 683 billion in 2020 and is predicted to stick out to 881.7 billion by 2025. In 2021, the worldwide shipment of consumer electronics stuck out at around 4.4 billion units, branding a 2.7% escalation as compared to 2020.
Recent Developments
In September 2023, VeriSilicon disclosed that Inuitive, a prominent vision-on-chip processor company, has incorporated its dual-channel Image Signal Processor (ISP) IP into its widely produced NU4100 vision AI processor. This IP boasts low latency and low power capabilities, contributing to an exceptional imaging and vision experience across various applications, including Robots, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Mixed Reality (MR), Drones, and more.
Final Thoughts
Each year, additional industries use microchips in their processes. In the semiconductor intellectual property (IP) market, industries that did not want semiconductors in the past have detected the requirement for microchips in their everyday business. Cars have microprocessors. Also, refrigerators, watches, speaker systems, and more. Thus, the market is robust and evolving.