Chip designer Arm is redirecting its research efforts towards more commercially viable products and limiting its “blue sky” research. As part of a strategy implemented by CEO Rene Haas, the Cambridge-based company disbanded Arm Research last year, resulting in the closure of the flagship tech division and cutting up to 15% of jobs across the business. The majority of the job cuts were aimed at general, administrative, and non-engineering functions.
Arm Research, previously responsible for partnering with universities to explore future applications of chip technology, saw its former co-founder, John Biggs, transition to a part-time role. Some former employees who left the company believe that the closure of Arm Research indicates a shift away from speculative research towards proven and potentially marketable product development.
While around 150 people were employed in Arm Research, more than half of them were redeployed to other areas within the organization, according to a person close to the company. The focus on “blue sky” research still persists but with a stronger connection to the future direction of the business. Arm is now looking ahead ten years into various areas while maintaining sensible control over investments.
Arm’s owner, SoftBank, is planning to launch Arm’s initial public offering (IPO) in New York this year, aiming to raise billions of dollars and improve the company’s financial performance. To attract investors, it is crucial for Arm to position itself as a lean business with compelling growth prospects, making the focus on commercial product development a priority.
Arm Research, which began over 20 years ago with 200 employees, delved into areas beyond immediate chip products and applications. The division explored low-power sensors for energy management, AI supercomputers, and novel materials and circuits for semiconductors. However, Arm’s recent emphasis on product delivery and short-term outcomes has prompted some employees to question the company’s long-term vision, particularly in light of the impending IPO.
Certain research areas, such as machine learning and chip design architecture, have been relocated within Arm, while others that were not aligned with the company’s product development roadmap have been discontinued. The materials, devices, and circuits groups, known for exploring innovative technologies and applications, have been disbanded.
As Arm prepares for its IPO, it aims to streamline its focus and prioritize research and development efforts that have a direct path to its evolving product lineup. By maintaining a balance between immediate market demands and long-term innovation, Arm seeks to position itself as an attractive investment opportunity for potential investors.
Arm declined to comment on these developments, emphasizing its commitment to delivering impactful products while adapting to the changing landscape of the semiconductor industry.