Knowles Corporation (NYSE: KN), a Itasca, Illinois-based provider of advanced micro-acoustic, audio processing, and precision device solutions, acquired the MEMS microphone ASIC design business from ams AG.
The purchase price of $58m was paid from cash on hand. The transaction includes intellectual property, rights to source ASIC wafers from multiple foundry partners, and the transfer of the ASIC design team, which will continue to be based in Switzerland.
Founded in 1946 and led by Jeffrey Niew, president and chief executive officer, Knowles is a global provider of advanced micro-acoustic, audio processing, and precision device solutions, serving the mobile consumer electronics, communications, medical, defense, automotive, and industrial markets.
The company uses its position in MEMS (micro-electro-mechanical systems) microphones and capabilities in audio processing technologies to optimize audio systems and improve the user experience in mobile, ear, and IoT applications.
Knowles is also a leader in acoustic components, high-end capacitors, and mmWave RF solutions for a diverse set of markets.
FinSMEs
30/12/2019