Infineon Technologies AG has announced its acquisition of Zurich-based startup 3db Access AG (3db), a pioneer in secure low-power Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology. Already a preferred IP provider for major automotive brands, 3db Access specializes in UWB technology, making it an ideal addition to Infineon’s connectivity portfolio. With this acquisition, Infineon enhances its offerings for secured smart access, precise localization, and advanced sensing.
Infineon’s connectivity range, which already includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®/Bluetooth® Low Energy, and NFC solutions, now incorporates UWB technology. The initial applications for UWB technology will include secured access and authentication, precise location tracking, indoor navigation, and presence detection through UWB radar implementations.
The UWB chipset market is poised to grow significantly, with an annual growth rate of around 13 percent, reaching approximately US$3.1 billion by 2028, according to ABI Research. By acquiring 3db Access, Infineon strengthens its position in this growing market, allowing it to address various applications in the automotive, industrial, and consumer IoT sectors.
Thomas Rosteck, President of Infineon’s Connected Secure Systems division, emphasized the importance of 3db’s expertise in UWB technology for Infineon’s IoT roadmap. He noted that their combined strengths will enable them to create full system solutions with low-power consumption, enhanced physical layer security, feature-rich RF frontend configurations, and localization-optimized hardware architecture.
Boris Danev, Co-Founder and CEO of 3db Access AG, highlighted their mission to bring UWB technology to smartphones, cars, and low-power IoT devices. As part of Infineon, they aim to enhance secured localization and sensing functionalities for major IoT and automotive applications, transitioning from an IP provider to a team offering complete solutions.
With this acquisition, Infineon and 3db Access will collaborate closely to leverage their combined expertise and offer additional benefits to their customers. Infineon, known for its extensive research and development activities with 59 R&D sites worldwide, is well-positioned to support the growth and development of UWB technology in various industries.
The financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed, and the acquisition reflects Infineon’s commitment to expanding its presence in the UWB market while enhancing its portfolio of secure, connected devices and solutions.
