Sony, TSMC Announce Image Sensor Joint Venture

Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corp., a subsidiary of Sony Group Corp., and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) announced Friday a nonbinding memorandum of understanding to form a joint venture for developing and manufacturing next-generation image sensors. The collaboration will establish development and production lines at Sony's newly constructed factory in Koshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, southwestern Japan, with Sony holding the majority and controlling stake.

The partnership combines Sony's expertise in image sensor design with TSMC's advanced process technology and manufacturing capabilities. Image sensors, which convert light into electrical signals for use in smartphones, dashboard cameras, and other devices, represent a market where Sony holds a leading position, projected to capture 56 percent of global revenue in fiscal 2025. The joint venture also aims to explore applications in physical artificial intelligence, particularly for automotive and robotics sectors.

This initiative builds on existing ties in the region. TSMC operates two facilities in Kumamoto Prefecture, one of which began mass production of 12- to 28-nanometer chips in December 2024 for...