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Silicon Labs
Silicon Labs
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Silicon Laboratories, Inc., commonly referred to as Silicon Labs, is a fabless global technology company that designs and manufactures semiconductors, other silicon devices and software, which it sells to electronics design engineers and manufacturers in Internet of Things (IoT) infrastructure worldwide.

Key Information

It is headquartered in Austin, Texas, United States. The company focuses on microcontrollers (MCUs) and wireless system on chips (SoCs) and modules. The company also produces software stacks including firmware libraries and protocol-based software, and a free software development platform called Simplicity Studio.[3]

Silicon Labs was founded in 1996 and two years later released its first product, an updated DAA design that enabled manufacturers to reduce the size and cost of a modem.[4] During its first three years, the company focused on RF and CMOS integration,[4] and developed the world's first CMOS RF synthesizer for mobile phones which was released in 1999.[4] Following the appointment of Tyson Tuttle as the CEO in 2012,[5] Silicon Labs has increasingly focused on developing technologies for the IoT market,[6] which in 2019 accounted for more than 50 percent of the company's revenue,[7] but in 2020 had increased to about 58 percent.[8]

In 1998, Silicon Labs released its first product, an updated Direct Access Arrangement (DAA) design that enabled manufacturers to reduce the size and cost of a modem.

In August 2019, Silicon Labs had more than 1,770 patents worldwide issued or pending.[9]

In February 2026, Texas Instruments announced its intent to buy Silicon Labs for $7.5 billion.[10][11]

History

[edit]

Silicon Labs was founded by Crystal Semiconductor (now owned by Cirrus Logic Inc.) alumni Nav Sooch, Dave Welland and Jeff Scott in 1996.[12] It became a publicly traded company in 2000.[12] The first product, an updated DAA design, was released in the market in 1998. It cost significantly less than traditional DAAs and used less space compared to established products, which made it an instant success, taking the company's sales from $5.6 million in 1998 to nearly $47 million in 1999.[4]

During its early years, the company focused on developing an improved RF synthesizer for mobile phones that would cost less and take up less space. It introduced its first RF Chip in late 1999.[4]

Since 2012, Silicon Labs has been increasingly focused on developing technologies for the evolving IoT market.[6] On April 22, 2021, Silicon Labs announced the sale of its infrastructure and automotive business to Skyworks Solutions Inc for $2.75 billion.[13] The deal was closed on July 26, 2021.[14]

In July 2021, it was announced that Tyson Tuttle would be stepping down as CEO.[15] In January 2022 former president, Matt Johnson, completed the transition into the CEO position.[16]

Key product launches

[edit]
  • In 1998, released updated DAA design.[4]
  • In 1999, launched RF Chip.[4]
  • In 2001, released first products in its timing portfolio, a family of clock generators designed for high-speed communication systems.[17]
  • In 2003, entered the mixed-signal MCU market with analog-intensive high-speed 8-bit MCUs.[18]
  • In 2004, released its first crystal oscillator family featuring patented digital signal processing phase locked loop (DSPLL) technology.[19]
  • In 2005, introduced a single-chip FM receiver, which enabled FM radio to be installed in a new range of applications.[20]
  • In 2006, entered the automotive electronics market with the launch of an integrated MCU family.[21]
  • In 2007, launched industry's first single-port PoE interface with integrated DC-DC controller.[22]
  • In 2008, released industry's smallest fully integrated automotive AM/FM radio receiver IC.[23]
  • In 2009, entered the human interface market with a portfolio of fast-response touch, proximity and ambient light sensor devices.[24]
  • In 2010, introduced industry's first single-chip multimedia digital TV demodulator.[25]
  • In 2011, released industry's first single-chip hybrid TV receiver.[26]
  • In 2012, entered the ARM-based 32-bit MCU market with a line of mixed-signal MCUs with USB and non-USB options.[27]
  • In 2013, introduced the world's first single-chip digital radio receivers for consumer electronics.[28]
  • In 2014, released the world's first digital ultraviolet index sensors.[29]
  • In 2015, launched Thread networking technology for connecting devices including wireless sensor networks, thermostats, connected lighting devices and control panels.[30]
  • In 2016, released Gecko family of multiprotocol wireless SoC devices.[31]
  • In 2017, launched industry's first wireless clocks that support 4G/LTE and Ethernet.[32]
  • In 2018, launched Z-Wave 700 hardware/software IoT platform.[33]
  • In 2019, launched updated version of wireless Gecko web development platform.[34]
  • In 2021, launched Wi-SUN® technology[35]
  • In 2021, announced that Silicon Labs wireless devices support Matter end products[36]

Leadership

[edit]
  • Matt Johnson, Chief Executive Officer
  • Dean Butler, Chief Financial Officer[37]
  • Daniel Cooley, Chief Technology Officer[38]
  • Radhika Chennakeshavula, Chief Information Officer[39]
  • Serena Townsend, Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer[40]
  • Brandon Tolany, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Sales and Marketing[40]
  • Bob Conrad, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Operations[41]
  • Sharon Hagi, Chief Security Officer
  • Néstor Ho Gutiérrez, Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Corporate Secretary

Products

[edit]

Silicon Labs provides semiconductor products for use in a variety of connected devices. The company also provides development kits and software including Simplicity Studio, an integrated development environment for IoT connected device applications.

'Silicon Labs' portfolio is built around the Internet of Things (IoT) focus area, primarily focused on home and life and industrial and commercial wireless applications.

Security technologies

[edit]

Silicon Labs' product portfolio is protected by a range of security measures:[43][44]

Anti-rollback prevention

  • Protects device by preventing the execution of previous versions of authenticated firmware that might carry security flaws

Cryptographic accelerator

Differential Power Analysis (DPA) countermeasures

Protected secret key storage

Public Key Infrastructure

  • IoT Device Certificate Authority enabling device-to-device or device-to-server identity authentication

Secure boot

  • Secure Boot with Root of Trust and Secure Loader (RTSL) provides additional security for loading initial code to the system microcontroller

Secure debug with lock/unlock

  • Access to debug port controlled by a unique lock token generated by signing a revocable unique identifier with a customer generated private key

Secure link

  • Encrypting the link between a host processor and radio transceiver or network co-processor (NCP)

Secure programming at manufacturing

Secure Vault

  • Integrated hardware and software security technology[45][46][47] Features include:
    • Secure device identity[48]
    • Secure key management and storage[49]
    • Advanced tamper detection[50]

True Random Number Generator

Protocols

[edit]

Silicon Labs technologies support seven wireless protocols.[51]

Bluetooth[52]

Bluetooth software enables developers to utilize Bluetooth LE, Bluetooth 5, Bluetooth 5.1, Bluetooth 5.2, and Bluetooth mesh. Bluetooth SDK can be used to create standalone Bluetooth applications for Wireless Gecko SoCs or modules, or network co-processor (NCP) applications. Products include:

  • Bluetooth SoCs
  • Certified Bluetooth modules
  • Software

Proprietary wireless protocols[53][54]

Devices cover sub-GHz and 2.4 GHz frequencies, delivering ultra-low power, long range, up to 20dBm output power and different modulation schemes for major frequency bands. Products include:

Thread[56]

Technologies that enabling IP connectivity through self-healing mesh features, native IPv6 based connectivity and different security options. Products include:

Zigbee[57]

Software stacks and development tools for Zigbee applications, including Mesh Networking SoCs and modules.

Z-Wave[58]

Modules and SoCs for applications in sectors including smart home, hospitality and MDUs, where sensors and battery-operated devices require long range and low power.

Wi-Fi[59]

Wi-Fi SoCs and modules designed for applications requiring low power and good RF performance, such as IoT. Products include:

  • Wi-Fi transceivers
  • Transceiver modules
  • Xpress modules
  • Stand-alone modules

Wi-SUN®

Wi-SUN (Wireless Smart Ubiquitous Network) is a field area network (FAN) to enable long-distance connectivity.[60] The Wi-SUN technology aims to simplify LPWAN deployment and enable secure wireless connectivity in applications including advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), street lighting networks, asset management, and parking, air quality, and waste management sensors.[61]

Matter

Matter is a global IoT connectivity standard that builds on top of existing IP-connectivity protocols to enable cross-platform IoT communication, encompassing end products, mobile applications, and cloud services. Silicon Labs wireless devices are available for the development of Matter end products that support Thread, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth protocols.[62]

Amazon Sidewalk

Amazon Sidewalk is a low-bandwidth, long-range wireless communication protocol developed by Amazon. It uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for short distance communication,[2] and 900 MHz CSS and FSK for longer distances.

Industry associations

[edit]

Silicon Labs is a founding member of both the ZigBee Alliance[63] and the Thread Group,[64] and is on the Board of Directors at the Wi-SUN Alliance.[65]

The company is also a member of the Bluetooth Special Interest Group,[66] Wi-Fi Alliance,[67] Z-Wave Alliance[68] and a Gold member of the Open Connectivity Foundation[69] and the RISC-V Foundation.[70]

Acquisitions

[edit]

Locations

[edit]

Silicon Labs is headquartered in Austin, Texas, with regional offices in Boston, Massachusetts and San Jose, California. The company has also corporate offices in Montreal, Canada; Copenhagen, Denmark; Espoo, Finland; Budapest, Hungary; Oslo, Norway and Singapore.

It has 15 sales offices across the world. These include Boston and San Jose in the US; Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Wuhan in China; Espoo, Finland; Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France; Munich, Germany; Milan, Italy; Tokyo, Japan; Seoul, South Korea; Singapore; Taipei, Taiwan; and Camberley, the UK.

Silicon Labs has a wireless development center in Hyderabad, India.[89]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Silicon Laboratories, Inc. (commonly known as Silicon Labs) is a fabless company specializing in the design and development of , software, and solutions for low-power wireless connectivity, with a primary focus on enabling secure and intelligent (IoT) devices. Founded in 1996 and headquartered in , the company provides highly integrated system-on-chips (SoCs), microcontrollers, sensors, and mixed-signal integrated circuits that support key wireless protocols including , , , Thread, and multiprotocol coexistence for applications in smart homes, industrial IoT, and smart cities. As of 2025, Silicon Labs employs approximately 2,028 people across operations in over 16 countries and generates annual revenue of around $743 million, positioning it as a leader in embedded technology that connects devices to improve efficiency and sustainability in various sectors. The company was established by semiconductor veterans Nav Sooch, Dave Welland, and , who incorporated Silicon Labs in 1996 following a coin toss to decide on the venture. Its early innovations included a global analog for personal computers and the world's first CMOS-based RF for mobile phones, which helped the firm achieve profitability within two years and secure $5 million in initial funding from Austin Ventures in 1997. Silicon Labs went public in 2000 on the stock exchange under the ticker symbol SLAB, raising nearly $100 million in its , and has since shipped over 7 billion devices while amassing more than 1,500 patents by 2016, with continued growth in wireless chip deployments exceeding 1 billion units. Today, Silicon Labs emphasizes innovation in , AI integration, and top-tier IoT security, offering developer tools, software platforms, and custom manufacturing services to support and deployment of connected solutions. The company operates as a pure-play IoT provider, divesting non-core segments to concentrate on technologies that address global challenges like energy efficiency and climate mitigation, guided by core values of empowering talent, simplifying customer success, accountability, and ethical leadership. In recent years, it has refreshed its branding with the tagline "Connected Intelligence" to reflect its vision as the undisputed leader in embedded , while committing to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles in product design, operations, and supply chain management. On February 4, 2026, Texas Instruments announced a definitive agreement to acquire Silicon Labs in an all-cash transaction at $231 per share, implying an enterprise value of approximately $7.5 billion. The deal is expected to close in the first half of 2027, subject to regulatory approvals, stockholder approval, and other customary conditions.

History

Founding and early years

Silicon Labs was founded in 1996 in , by Nav Sooch, , and Dave Welland, former engineers at Crystal Semiconductor, as a fabless company specializing in mixed-signal integrated circuits (ICs). The trio's decision to launch the venture stemmed from their vision to innovate in analog and mixed-signal technologies, targeting large markets like with highly integrated, cost-effective solutions. Notably, the founders resolved their uncertainty about leaving stable jobs through a simple coin toss—landing on heads, which propelled them forward into . The company's initial focus centered on developing a silicon direct access arrangement (DAA) technology for modems, aiming to replace bulky discrete components with a single IC to drastically reduce costs, size, and power consumption while enhancing integration. This breakthrough addressed key pain points in the PC modem market, where traditional designs relied on expensive, space-intensive transformer-based interfaces. In March 1997, Silicon Labs secured $5 million in its first round from Austin Ventures, enabling rapid prototyping and development. The first DAA product shipped in April 1998 to early customers like PC-Tel and , quickly gaining traction and establishing market leadership in PC modems. Parallel to the modem innovations, the founders pursued early applications, releasing the world's first CMOS-based RF for mobile phones as one of their initial IC designs, laying groundwork for future expansions into RF technologies. Despite the dot-com era's volatility, Silicon Labs navigated early challenges through lean operations and focused R&D, achieving profitability ahead of schedule. The company went public on March 24, 2000, listing on under the ticker SLAB and raising approximately $90.6 million, which fueled further growth and investment in its mixed-signal portfolio.

Key milestones and product launches

Silicon Labs marked a significant advancement in technology with the release of its RF synthesis IC in 1999, designed specifically for transceivers. This CMOS-based synthesizer integrated functions into standard processes, eliminating the need for discrete (SAW) filters and oscillator modules, which reduced costs and size for mobile handsets. The product quickly gained traction, securing as its first customer and achieving over 25% in the mobile handset sector by the early . In 2001, the company launched its timing portfolio, featuring clock generators and oscillators tailored for high-speed communications applications. These products addressed the growing demand for precise timing in networking and , enabling more reliable signal and contributing to Silicon Labs' expansion beyond modems into broader mixed-signal solutions. The introduction of the C8051 series microcontrollers in 2003 represented a pivotal shift toward low-power mixed-signal integration. These 8-bit MCUs combined an 8051-compatible core with analog peripherals like ADCs and DACs on a single chip, facilitating compact designs for embedded systems in and industrial controls. This line underscored Silicon Labs' focus on energy-efficient processing, setting the stage for its microcontroller dominance. During the mid-2000s, Silicon Labs expanded into broadcast tuner and digital isolation products, including broadcast radio and tuners as well as high-voltage isolation solutions for industrial and automotive uses. These innovations leveraged the company's mixed-signal expertise to support over-the-air signal reception and , enhancing reliability in harsh environments and broadening applications in media and power systems. A major leap in IoT connectivity came in 2015 with the launch of the Wireless Gecko platform, which integrated and capabilities into energy-efficient SoCs. This platform combined the EFM32 Gecko MCU family with RF transceivers, enabling multiprotocol wireless designs for smart home and industrial IoT devices, and was exemplified by the EFR32 series SoCs that offered sub-GHz and 2.4 GHz support for extended range and low-power operation. In 2021, Silicon Labs celebrated its 25th anniversary since founding in 1996, coinciding with a refresh that emphasized its leadership in IoT solutions through , software, and connectivity. This milestone highlighted the company's evolution from a startup focused on analog innovations to a global provider of technologies, with over 7 billion devices shipped by that point.

Divestitures and recent developments

In 2021, Silicon Labs divested its Infrastructure and Automotive business to in an all-cash transaction valued at $2.75 billion, enabling a sharpened focus on its core (IoT) wireless connectivity solutions. The deal, completed in July 2021, included the transfer of power/isolation, timing, and broadcast product lines, allowing Silicon Labs to streamline operations and allocate resources toward high-growth IoT markets. Following the divestiture, Silicon Labs intensified its investment in AI-driven IoT development tools, launching the Simplicity Ecosystem in October 2025, which integrates AI-assisted code generation, debugging, and optimization to accelerate IoT innovation. This suite, anchored by Simplicity Studio 6 (available as of October 2025) and the upcoming Simplicity AI SDK (public launch planned for 2026), supports multi-protocol connectivity for protocols like Matter, Zigbee, and Bluetooth, enhancing developer productivity amid the company's 25+ years of IoT expertise. Concurrently, Silicon Labs announced an expanded partnership with GlobalFoundries in October 2025 to develop 40nm system-on-chips (SoCs) at U.S.-based facilities, bolstering domestic semiconductor manufacturing and supply chain resilience for wireless IoT devices. Financially, Silicon Labs reported first-quarter 2025 revenue of $178 million, reflecting 67% year-over-year growth driven by ramping IoT design wins in industrial and segments. In the third quarter of 2025, revenue reached $206 million, up 24% year-over-year and 7% sequentially, with gross margins expanding to 58% due to favorable product mix and operational efficiencies from IoT momentum. Earlier supply chain disruptions, exacerbated by global events, had constrained growth in prior years, but by 2025, Silicon Labs resolved these challenges through diversified sourcing and the IoT production ramp-up, contributing to sustained revenue expansion and profitability improvements. On February 4, 2026, Texas Instruments announced a definitive agreement to acquire Silicon Labs in an all-cash transaction at $231 per share, representing an enterprise value of approximately $7.5 billion. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2027, subject to regulatory approvals (including antitrust clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act), approval by Silicon Labs stockholders, and other customary closing conditions. The acquisition is intended to create a global leader in embedded wireless connectivity solutions by combining Silicon Labs' expertise in mixed-signal and wireless connectivity solutions with Texas Instruments' analog and embedded processing portfolio and internal manufacturing capabilities. The combined entity is expected to generate approximately $450 million in annual manufacturing and operational synergies within three years post-closing and to be accretive to Texas Instruments' earnings per share in the first full year after completion.

Leadership

Executive team

Matt Johnson has served as President and of Silicon Labs since January 2022, leading the company's strategic shift to a pure-play focus on (IoT) solutions following the 2021 divestiture of its infrastructure and automotive business to . Under his leadership, Silicon Labs has emphasized secure, wireless connectivity for smart devices, driving revenue growth and market expansion in edge IoT applications. In 2025, Johnson was recognized as the Austin Business Journal's Best CEO in the category for his role in advancing the company's IoT innovations and . Daniel Cooley serves as Senior Vice President of Technology & Product Development and , where he oversees the development of advanced wireless technologies critical to Silicon Labs' IoT portfolio. Cooley has been instrumental in building the company's wireless connectivity solutions, including innovations in , , and protocols, and has led key acquisitions and R&D initiatives to enhance IoT security and interoperability. His contributions include holding five patents in technology, supporting the evolution of low-power, high-performance chips for connected devices. Serena Townsend is the Chief People Officer, responsible for managing , talent acquisition, and organizational development across Silicon Labs' global operations. With over 25 years of HR experience, Townsend has focused on building diverse, skilled teams to support the company's IoT-driven growth, including initiatives to attract talent for software and hardware development in ecosystems. Brandon Tolany holds the position of Senior Vice President of Worldwide Sales, , and Applications, driving the global adoption of Silicon Labs' IoT platforms through strategic partnerships and go-to-market strategies. Tolany leads efforts in ecosystem development, collaborating with developers and partners to integrate Silicon Labs' solutions into broader IoT applications, such as smart homes and industrial sensors, enhancing the company's . Other key executives include Dean Butler, Senior and , who manages financial planning and to fund IoT product roadmaps and expansions; Robert Conrad, Senior and , who oversees IoT platform operations and product lines to accelerate deployment of solutions; Benny Chang, Senior and of Software, leading and for IoT solutions; Néstor Ho Gutiérrez, Senior and Deputy , focusing on operations and for global IoT delivery; and Manish Kothari, Senior of , driving advancements in IoT software platforms and tools.

Board of directors

The Board of Directors of Silicon Labs consists of eight members as of 2025, providing oversight on strategic direction, , and risk management for the company focused on IoT solutions. The board is structured into three classes with staggered three-year terms to ensure continuity, with Class III directors William G. Bock, Christy Wyatt, and Sherri Luther standing for election in 2025. Nav Sooch serves as Chairman and independent director; as a co-founder of Silicon Labs in 1996, he brings extensive experience in semiconductor innovation from prior roles as CEO of Ketra and positions at Crystal Semiconductor, Cirrus Logic, and AT&T Bell Labs. He chairs the Corporate Development and Finance Committee, guiding investments in wireless technologies. Gregg Lowe, an independent director, contributes expertise from his tenure as CEO of Wolfspeed (2017-2024), Freescale Semiconductor, and Texas Instruments, and chairs the Nominating and Governance Committee to align board composition with evolving industry needs. Sherri Luther, an independent director and financial expert, focuses on audit and compliance matters, drawing from her role as CFO of Coherent Corp. and prior positions at Lattice Semiconductor and Arthur Andersen; she serves on the Audit and Nominating and Governance Committees. Other key members include Bill Bock, an independent financial expert and former Silicon Labs CFO/President, who chairs the Audit Committee; Nina Richardson, an independent director with operations experience from GoPro and Flex, on the Audit and Corporate Development and Finance Committees; Sumit Sadana, Lead Director and independent with business leadership from Micron Technology and SanDisk, on the Nominating and Governance Committee; Christy Wyatt, an independent director and CEO of Absolute Software with cybersecurity background, chairing the Compensation Committee; and Matt Johnson, President and CEO, providing executive perspective on IoT strategy. The board operates through key committees including (emphasizing financial reporting and compliance), Compensation (overseeing executive pay and talent retention), Nominating and (focusing on director qualifications and corporate ethics), and and (directing mergers, investments, and financial strategy). These committees contribute to governance by prioritizing ESG principles and IoT security standards, with the board receiving quarterly reports from an ESG Steering Committee led by the to integrate into operations, such as reducing and ethical practices. The board's work aligns with company events like Works With 2025 that highlight AI-driven innovations.

Products

Wireless connectivity solutions

Silicon Labs offers a range of system-on-chip (SoC) devices and modules designed for wireless connectivity in Internet of Things (IoT) applications, emphasizing low-power operation and multi-protocol support to enable efficient, scalable networks. These solutions include the EFR32 series SoCs, which integrate radio frequency (RF) transceivers with microcontrollers to support protocols such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Zigbee, and Thread, facilitating seamless communication in smart home and industrial environments. The EFR32 series, particularly the MG24 and MG21 variants, provides multi-protocol capabilities optimized for . The EFR32MG24 SoCs support , OpenThread, , BLE, mesh, and proprietary 2.4 GHz protocols, with a 2.4 GHz radio offering up to 19.5 dBm transmit power and receive sensitivity down to -105.7 dBm. These devices operate at voltages from 1.71 V to 3.8 V and feature low-power modes, including a sleep current of 1.3 μA in EM2 DeepSleep with 16 kB RAM retention and running. Similarly, the EFR32MG21 SoCs handle , Thread, BLE (versions 5 and 5.1), mesh, and , with active receive currents around 9.4 mA for /Thread and transmit currents up to 34.9 mA at 10 dBm, supporting up to +20 dBm output power. In October 2025, Silicon Labs released its Series 3 SoCs, including the SiMG301 for multiprotocol support (, Bluetooth LE, over Thread) and SiBG301 for Bluetooth LE, built on a with up to 4 MB Flash, 512 kB RAM, and PSA Level 4 certified security. These offer enhanced compute, power efficiency, and integration compared to Series 2, while maintaining compatibility. For Matter-compatible smart home devices, Silicon Labs' xG21 and xG24 platforms deliver robust connectivity over Thread. The xG21 platform, based on EFR32xG21 SoCs, enables Matter over Thread for OpenThread border routers, providing reliable mesh networking for gateways and hubs in connected lighting and voice assistants. The xG24 platform, utilizing EFR32xG24 SoCs, supports Matter end devices and border routers with enhanced low-power performance, achieving active mode currents of 33.4 μA/MHz and extended battery life for sensors, switches, door locks, and LED lighting. Silicon Labs also provides Wi-Fi connectivity solutions, including the SiWx917 series SoCs supporting and LE 5.4 with ultra-low power for battery-operated IoT devices, and modules like SiWx917Y and RS9116 for single/dual-band . These enable cloud-connected applications in smart homes and industrial settings with features like long battery life and multiprotocol coexistence. In long-range IoT scenarios, such as smart metering, Silicon Labs provides Sub-GHz radios through the EFR32FG25 SoCs, which operate in frequency bands like 490 MHz, 866.5 MHz, and 915 MHz for extended coverage in building and automation. These SoCs deliver up to +16 dBm transmit power with receive currents as low as 6.3 mA at 400 kbps 4-FSK modulation, enabling efficient data transmission over distances suitable for utility applications. To accelerate prototyping, Silicon Labs offers modules like the MGM240 series, which integrate EFR32MG24 SoCs for rapid development in industrial IoT. The MGM240 modules support , Thread, , BLE 5.4, Bluetooth mesh, and proprietary protocols, with variants providing up to 19.9 dBm output power and operating voltages from 1.71 V to 3.8 V. They feature low sleep currents of 1.3 μA and are designed for harsh environments, with temperature ranges up to -40°C to 125°C, allowing quick deployment in smart devices without extensive RF expertise.

Microcontrollers and processors

Silicon Labs' (MCU) portfolio centers on low-power 32-bit devices optimized for embedded IoT applications, with the Precision32 family representing an early emphasis on delivering 32-bit Cortex-M3 performance in compact nodes. Introduced in the early , the Precision32 SiM3C1xx and SiM3U1xx series provided up to 80 MHz operation, integrated analog peripherals, and energy-efficient architectures suitable for battery-operated sensing tasks, such as and in resource-constrained environments. The company's modern offerings, particularly the Series 2 EFM32 MCUs, build on this foundation with Cortex-M33 processors running at up to 80 MHz, enabling secure, high-efficiency processing for ultra-low-power systems. These MCUs, such as the EFM32PG23 family, incorporate advanced energy modes with active current as low as 21 μA/MHz and sleep modes down to 1.03 μA while retaining 16 kB RAM, making them ideal for prolonged battery life in IoT edge devices. A key strength of the EFM32 Series 2 lies in their mixed-signal integration, featuring high-performance analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) like the integrated ADC (IADC) supporting 12-, 16-, and 20-bit resolutions at up to 2 Msps for high-speed acquisition or 16-bit () at 3.8 ksps for precision measurements. Complementary digital-to-analog converters (DACs), such as the 2-channel voltage DAC (VDAC), along with versatile timers for and capture functions, facilitate seamless handling of interfacing and control in analog-heavy applications like and actuation. Power management in these MCUs is enhanced by dynamic voltage scaling, which adjusts supply levels for energy modes (e.g., EM0/EM1 at lower voltages) to minimize consumption without compromising performance, achieving optimizations like 0.7 μA in EM4 with enabled. This technique extends battery life in always-on scenarios, supporting operation from 1.71 V to 3.8 V across -40 °C to +125 °C temperatures. In applications, the EFM32 Series 2 MCUs enable edge AI processing through Cortex-M33 DSP instructions and floating-point units, powering lightweight inference in connected devices such as wearables, continuous glucose monitors, and insulin pumps for real-time vital sign analysis. Similarly, in industrial settings, they drive and in battery-powered tools, building automation sensors, and circuit breakers, leveraging their low-power profile for reliable, autonomous operation.

Software and development tools

Silicon Labs provides a comprehensive suite of software platforms and development tools designed to streamline the creation, testing, and deployment of (IoT) solutions. Central to this ecosystem is Simplicity Studio, an (IDE) that supports code development, , and performance for Silicon Labs' wireless and microcontroller-based devices. Built on the framework, Simplicity Studio version 5 and later versions offer features such as project import/export, code editing, one-click access to software development kits (SDKs), and integration with tools for real-time monitoring. The Gecko SDK Suite serves as the foundational software package for developing IoT applications, integrating wireless protocol stacks, application frameworks, and the Gecko Platform for 32-bit microcontrollers. This suite combines multiple SDKs into a unified structure, enabling developers to build applications for Series 0 and Series 1 devices while providing libraries for peripherals, utilities, and services. It ensures long-term support and maintenance for wireless connectivity features without requiring changes to existing device compatibility. For enhanced interoperability in smart home ecosystems, Silicon Labs integrates the Matter SDK into its development tools, leveraging protocols like Thread and to create unified wireless connectivity solutions. This integration allows developers to prototype and deploy Matter-compliant devices directly within Simplicity Studio, including support for extensions and project migration from legacy tools. The Matter SDK facilitates accessory device development, emphasizing seamless communication across diverse smart home environments. Optimization of power consumption is addressed through specialized tools like the Energy Profiler, embedded within Simplicity Studio, which visualizes energy usage for individual devices, multi-node systems, or interconnected networks. This tool captures via debug interfaces on starter kits, enabling developers to identify inefficiencies and refine applications for low-power IoT deployments. It supports session-based analysis to correlate energy profiles with code execution, aiding in the design of battery-efficient solutions. In 2025, Silicon Labs introduced significant updates to its software ecosystem, including AI-assisted code generation capabilities within the Simplicity Platform to accelerate prototyping and development workflows. Launched in October 2025, this next-generation suite incorporates AI for , adaptive , and intelligent application , extending across tools to provide contextual insights and collaborative features. These enhancements aim to reduce development time for IoT devices by automating routine tasks and optimizing code based on hardware constraints.

Technologies

Security features

Silicon Labs' Secure Vault technology provides an integrated hardware-based suite designed to protect IoT devices from sophisticated threats, incorporating a hardware root of trust (RoT) and secure elements for cryptographic key storage and management. The hardware RoT serves as the foundational trust anchor, utilizing immutable ROM code to initiate secure operations and prevent unauthorized modifications, while secure elements offer tamper-resistant storage for sensitive data such as private keys. This architecture defends against both remote software attacks and local hardware intrusions by isolating critical functions in a dedicated Secure Engine . A key aspect of Secure Vault is its compliance with the Platform Security Architecture (PSA). In 2021, it achieved PSA Certified Level 3 status for its root of trust implementation in Series 2 wireless SoCs, validating robust protection against substantial software and hardware attacks through independent verification, including secure boot processes that authenticate integrity using cryptographic . In August 2025, Secure Vault attained the world's first PSA Certified Level 4 certification for Series 3 SoCs, offering the highest level of assurance against advanced threats. Additionally, Secure Vault supports over-the-air (OTA) updates with validation and anti-rollback mechanisms to maintain update authenticity, alongside anti-tampering protections that detect and respond to physical attacks like voltage glitching or side-channel exploits. In October 2025, Silicon Labs launched Series 3 SoCs, built on a with a multi-core that separates application, , and workloads to enhance and isolation in Secure Vault implementations. To address regulatory requirements in the , Silicon Labs' Secure Vault-equipped SoCs comply with the EN 18031:2024 cybersecurity standards under the Radio Equipment Directive (RED), facilitating secure deployment of internet-connected radio equipment by providing mechanisms for , secure storage, and . The immutable hardware RoT further enhances this compliance by establishing a non-alterable foundation that blocks unauthorized access attempts, ensuring device integrity throughout the product lifecycle even in the face of evolving threats.

Supported protocols

Silicon Labs integrates a range of protocols into its IoT solutions to enable seamless across devices, focusing on low-power, reliable connectivity for smart home and industrial applications. These protocols are supported through multiprotocol SoCs and software stacks that allow simultaneous operation, ensuring compatibility with diverse ecosystems. (BLE) is a cornerstone of Silicon Labs' offerings, optimized for short-range communication in consumer devices such as wearables, sensors, and smart accessories. It provides efficient, low-power data transfer over distances up to 100 meters, with support for versions up to 5.4 in multiprotocol configurations that coexist with other standards like or Thread. Silicon Labs' EFR32 Series 2 SoCs enable BLE for battery-operated IoT endpoints, facilitating quick pairing and data exchange in personal area networks. Zigbee and Thread protocols are prominently featured in Silicon Labs' portfolio for in smart homes, enabling robust, self-healing networks that scale to hundreds of nodes. , operating in the 2.4 GHz band, supports low-data-rate applications like lighting and HVAC controls, with Silicon Labs providing certified stacks for interoperability in ecosystems such as . Thread, an IP-based mesh protocol, complements by offering connectivity for secure, scalable , integrated into Silicon Labs' EFR32xG24 devices for low-power operation. Both protocols leverage Silicon Labs' multiprotocol capabilities to run concurrently, enhancing device flexibility without compromising range or reliability. The standard, launched with Silicon Labs' support in 2022, unifies smart home ecosystems by providing a common IP-based framework for across brands. Matter enables seamless control of devices via , Thread, or Ethernet, with Silicon Labs offering native integration through its wireless SoCs and SDKs, including commissioning via . This support accelerates development for multi-vendor environments, reducing fragmentation in connected homes. Z-Wave is supported by Silicon Labs for low-power , utilizing sub-GHz frequencies for extended range and penetration through walls, ideal for security systems and sensors. The protocol's mesh topology allows up to 4,000 nodes per network, with Silicon Labs' Z-Wave 800 Series SoCs providing enhanced security and long-range variants like Z-Wave LR for point-to-point connections up to several miles. This enables reliable, interference-free operation in dense environments. For broader connectivity, Silicon Labs incorporates and Sub-GHz protocols to address high-throughput and long-range needs in IoT deployments. Wi-Fi 6 support in the SiWx917 family delivers ultra-low-power operation with features like Target Wake Time for battery life extension, suitable for video streaming and cloud-connected devices in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. Sub-GHz protocols, including proprietary and standard options like those for smart metering, offer superior range and low data rates for industrial and outdoor applications, integrated into multiprotocol SoCs for coexistence with 2.4 GHz standards.

Business operations

Acquisitions

Silicon Labs has pursued a strategy of acquisitions to expand its portfolio in mixed-signal semiconductors, wireless connectivity, and (IoT) technologies, integrating acquired technologies to enhance its core offerings in microcontrollers, sensors, and networking solutions. These moves have allowed the company to bolster its expertise in low-power, high-performance ICs, particularly for energy-efficient applications in , industrial automation, and smart home devices. In August 2000, Silicon Labs acquired Krypton Isolation Inc. for approximately $42 million in cash, gaining proprietary all-silicon isolation technology that enabled the development of digital isolators for reliable transmission in noisy environments. This acquisition strengthened Silicon Labs' position in power and isolation products, which became integral to its infrastructure solutions for and industrial systems, providing without optocouplers to improve reliability and reduce costs. The company further expanded its microcontroller (MCU) capabilities in 2003 by acquiring Cygnal Integrated Products for about $60 million in stock. Cygnal's portfolio of over 50 analog-intensive, 8-bit MCUs complemented Silicon Labs' existing mixed-signal expertise, enabling entry into the general-purpose MCU market and accelerating development of precision analog peripherals for embedded applications. The integration diversified Silicon Labs' product line, contributing to its growth in low-power computing for battery-operated devices. In 2005, Silicon Labs purchased Silicon Magike Inc. for $16 million in cash, acquiring mixed-signal ICs focused on high-speed interfaces for . This deal added video processing and connectivity technologies, such as and DVI controllers, which were integrated into Silicon Labs' broader offerings to support multimedia applications in displays and set-top boxes. Three years later, in July 2008, the acquisition of Integration Associates for $80 million net of cash introduced advanced optical sensing technologies, including ambient light and proximity sensors. These sensors enhanced Silicon Labs' human-machine interface solutions, enabling energy-efficient display management in mobile devices and portable gadgets by automatically adjusting brightness and detecting user proximity. Silicon Labs continued expanding its low-power portfolio in July 2013 with the acquisition of Energy Micro for approximately $170 million, adding nearly 250 based MCUs and sub-GHz wireless technologies that strengthened its offerings in energy-efficient embedded systems and IoT sensor networks. A pivotal expansion in wireless networking occurred in July 2012 when Silicon Labs acquired Corporation for $72 million. 's expertise in low-power 2.4 GHz mesh networking protocols provided Silicon Labs with robust software stacks and chipsets for scalable sensor networks, significantly advancing its IoT platform for smart energy, , and building controls. The integration accelerated adoption of solutions, targeting a market projected to grow from $100 million in 2012 to $600 million by 2016. In February 2015, Silicon Labs acquired Bluegiga Technologies for $61 million in cash, gaining leadership in (BLE) and modules, which enhanced its wireless connectivity solutions for developers building IoT devices and wearables. In April 2020, Silicon Labs completed the $308 million cash acquisition of Redpine Signals' connectivity business, including its , assets, development center, and patent portfolio. This move bolstered Silicon Labs' wireless portfolio with ultra-low-power and technologies, facilitating multi-protocol connectivity for IoT devices in smart homes and industrial settings. The acquired assets expedited Silicon Labs' roadmap for secure, high-efficiency wireless solutions, enhancing across ecosystems. Following the 2020 acquisition and the 2021 divestiture of its and Automotive business to Skyworks for $2.75 billion, Silicon Labs shifted emphasis toward organic growth and IoT-focused innovation, with no major acquisitions reported through 2025.

Industry associations

Silicon Labs maintains active memberships in several key industry associations focused on advancing IoT connectivity and security standards. As a promoter member of the (CSA), formerly known as the Alliance, the company contributes to the promotion and development of , Thread, and protocols, enabling interoperable smart home ecosystems. In collaboration with the Z-Wave Alliance, Silicon Labs expanded its role in 2019 by becoming a silicon supplier, broadening access to technology for smart home applications and fostering ecosystem growth through standardized, low-power wireless solutions. Silicon Labs is a member of the (SIG), where it supports advancements in (LE) technology, including contributions to features and enhanced security for IoT devices. The company participates in the PSA Certified program, administered by , achieving the world's first Level 4 certification in August 2025 for its Series 3 Secure Vault, which benchmarks robust security against sophisticated attacks like , thereby elevating industry standards for IoT hardware protection. Through these associations, Silicon Labs leads working groups, particularly in the and CSA, to drive multi-protocol , allowing seamless integration of protocols like , Thread, and LE on shared hardware platforms. Additionally, the company contributes to initiatives within these groups by advocating for energy-efficient designs that reduce power consumption in IoT deployments, aligning with broader goals for environmentally responsible connected ecosystems.

Global locations

Silicon Labs is headquartered at 400 West Cesar Chavez in , , serving as the primary hub for research and development (R&D) as well as executive operations. This central location coordinates global engineering efforts and houses key teams focused on innovation and IoT solutions. Within the , the company maintains additional offices in , , which specializes in wireless design and IoT software , including platform and protocol teams. Another key site is in , at 2550 N First Street #200, supporting IoT applications and sales activities in the region. These facilities enhance Silicon Labs' domestic presence for design and market engagement. Internationally, Silicon Labs operates offices in Hyderabad, , where its Wireless Development Center focuses on and embedded systems engineering. In , the office at 18 Tai Seng Street #05-01 functions as the Asia-Pacific international headquarters, primarily handling sales and regional operations. The , , location at Sandakerveien 118 emphasizes RF engineering, stemming from the acquisition of Energy Micro, which bolstered expertise in low-power technologies. Design centers are also established in , , at Park, supporting hardware and applications engineering, and in , , at 1010 Rue De La Gauchetière O., contributing to broader R&D initiatives. Overall, Silicon Labs maintains operations across more than 16 countries, enabling a distributed footprint for global collaboration in wireless connectivity and IoT development. In 2025, the company expanded its U.S. fabrication partnerships, notably with , to enhance through advanced 40nm low-power process technology for wireless system-on-chips, accelerating domestic chip manufacturing for IoT applications.

References

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