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SK Hynix Begins Testing Intel EMIB for HBM Packaging to Ease CoWoS Strain

The move signals a push to add a second path for advanced chip assembly that could loosen a key supply chokepoint for AI hardware.

Overview

  • SK Hynix has received Intel EMIB substrates and started integration tests to link high‑bandwidth memory with logic chips, according to new reporting.
  • EMIB uses tiny silicon bridges in the package substrate so side‑by‑side chiplets can talk at high speed, offering a different route than TSMC’s large silicon interposer used in CoWoS.
  • Industry sources say the goal is to qualify an alternative to CoWoS as that service faces long‑running capacity limits that have slowed deliveries of HBM‑equipped accelerators.
  • Analysts have cited EMIB validation yields up to about 90%, though reports caution that production yields and materials choices will decide whether the tech is ready for volume use.
  • SK Hynix previously announced a $3.9 billion U.S. facility for 2.5D HBM packaging, and shares in both SK Hynix and Intel rose after the testing reports, which neither company has formally confirmed.