Spansion snaps up Saifun

Justifying the move, Spansion said the acquisition would not only consolidate IP which complements its MirrorBit technology, but would also allow it to enter the technology licensing business immediately. The move is also said to improve the chances of MirrorBit being adopted beyond the NOR segment. “Throughout our long term partnership with Saifun, we have been impressed with the depth of technology expertise, the quality of people and the ingenuity of the organisation and look forward to establishing a team in Israel,” said Bertrand Cambou, Spansion’s president and ceo, pictured. “We look forward to collaborating with them to serve Saifun's existing licensees, and enter new markets with a powerful technology licensing strategy and a broadened and diversified product portfolio.” Spansion has licensed Saifun’s NROM IP since 2002 and this has formed the cornerstone of MirrorBit. By combining the two companies, says Spansion, it can further accelerate the development of its next generation product roadmap. Saifun ceo Boaz Eitan noted: “We are certain that the addition of the Spansion IP and manufacturing know how will only accelerate all programs.”