Tessera acquisition expands its image enhancement range

Siimpel has 42 employees and, according to Tessera, the company's MEMS-based auto focus solutions are expected to drive new levels of power, size and performance of digital cameras for cell phones and other camera-enabled devices. The company has 65 patents and patent applications for its technology. Henry Nothhaft (pictured), Tessera's chairman and chief executive officer, said: "This acquisition will enable us to leverage the extensive customer relationships we have developed with the supply chain to offer a wider range of high-value IP-based imaging and optics solutions. Growing consumer demand for cell phones with video capabilities as well as digital still camera functionality is driving the need for smaller, lower-power, higher-performance camera modules. We believe that Siimpel's innovative MEMS technology addresses these next-generation camera module requirements, while keeping costs low by utilising the existing supply chain and materials." The transaction is subject to various standard closing conditions, but could be completed within the next few days.