Altair Semiconductor

The business model centers on the design and sale of these specialized semiconductor chips to a broad range of device manufacturers. Altair's chipsets are the core component that enables cellular connectivity in a vast array of products. Its client base includes companies in sectors such as automotive for vehicle telematics, utilities for smart meters, and consumer electronics for devices like wearables and home appliances. By focusing on low-power, small-footprint solutions, Altair effectively addresses the critical needs of the Cellular IoT market, where battery life and physical size are paramount constraints. Revenue is generated directly from the sale of millions of these chipsets to a global customer base.

A significant milestone in the company's history occurred in February 2016 when it was acquired by Sony Corporation for a reported $212 million. This acquisition integrated Altair into Sony's Semiconductor Solutions division, creating a synergy between Altair's cellular IoT technology and Sony's established leadership in imaging and sensing technologies. Post-acquisition, the company, rebranded as Sony Semiconductor Israel, has continued to develop its chipset offerings, preparing for the transition to 5G IoT and expanding its reach under the Sony umbrella. The acquisition provided Altair with the resources and market access of a global technology giant, while Sony gained crucial expertise in the rapidly growing cellular IoT space.