Apple is in discussions to acquire a division of Japan’s Renesas Electronics that develops chips for smartphone displays, Nikkei Asian Review reports. The division in question, Renesas SP Drivers, is “the world’s leading producer of drivers and controllers for small and midsize LCDs.” These chips are said to “determine a display’s quality and performance,” in addition to affecting the overall energy efficiency of a device.
Renesas SP is a joint venture between Renesas, Sharp, and Powerchip.
Apple is reportedly seeking Renesas’ 55 percent stake for an estimated $479 million.
All of Apple’s iPhone liquid crystal display chips already come from Renesas SP; the acquisition would give Apple greater control of how the chips fit into its product designs. The report claims Apple hopes to complete the acquisition by summer, with about 240 current employees staying with the unit.