Synopsys has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Processor IP Solutions business to GlobalFoundries.The transaction allows Synopsys to focus its IP resources on interface and foundation IP while pursuing AI-driven opportunities from cloud to edge in sectors including high-performance computing, mobile, automotive, and consumer. It reflects Synopsys' approach to portfolio management.
Synopsys will retain its design IP portfolio, including logic libraries, embedded memories, interface IP, security IP, and subsystems. The company will continue to support processor ecosystems using EDA solutions optimized for processor implementation, verification, signoff, and electronics digital twins.
The acquired business includes the ARC-V (RISC-V) and ARC CPU IP, DSP IP, Neural Network Processing Unit (NPU) IP, and software tools such as ARC MetaWare Development Toolkits. It also covers ASIP Designer and ASIP Programmer tools for application-specific instruction-set processors.
Synopsys and GlobalFoundries will collaborate to support customers during the transition.
Sassine Ghazi, president and CEO of Synopsys, stated: "We are focusing our IP resources and roadmap to further our leadership in essential interface and foundation IP while winning new, high-value opportunities that advance our position as the leading provider of engineering solutions from silicon to systems. GF will be an excellent future steward for the processor IP solutions business, and we are committed to a smooth transition for the team, customers and partners."
Tim Breen, CEO of GlobalFoundries, stated: "This acquisition doubles down on our commitment to advancing our leadership in Physical AI. By combining Synopsys' ARC IP and MIPS technologies with GF's advanced manufacturing capabilities, we are lowering the barrier for customer adoption of the essential technologies that our customers need to innovate faster for the next-generation of compute and AI applications. This move will strengthen our differentiated technology roadmap and position GF to deliver end-to-end solutions for our customers that will support the expansion of AI-enabled devices into the physical world."
The transaction is not material to Synopsys' business. Terms are not disclosed. It is expected to close in the second half of 2026, subject to customary conditions and regulatory approvals. Until closing, the business will operate within Synopsys.
