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(Sharecast News) - Compound semiconductor wafer and materials supplier IQE announced the signing of a multi-year agreement with Advanced Wireless Semiconductor Company (AWSC), it announced on Thursday, for the supply of epiwafers for wireless applications.
The AIM-traded firm said AWSC, a "leader" in the field of compound semiconductor wafer fabrication, had been a partner for more than 20 years.
It said the three-year supply deal would cover epitaxial wafers spanning a range of AWSC's wireless products, including those which enable 4G and 5G mobile handsets and WiFi products.
The agreement would provide IQE with "diversification opportunities" into mass-market power amplifier products.
Both IQE and AWSC would also partner in the design and development of solutions for next-generation wireless applications.
"This strategic partnership agreement, our first with AWSC, represents IQE's new approach to business," said chief executive officer Americo Lemos.
"AWSC and IQE are building upon our longstanding relationship to accelerate innovation by bringing new solutions to serve the growing markets of smart connected devices and automotive.
"We are very excited about the great opportunities ahead of us in the market."
At 1105 GMT, shares in IQE were up 1.2% at 42.1p.
Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.
