CEO Interview with Steve Kim of Chips&Media

Key Takeaways

• 3 billion devices use Chips&Media IP across 150 top-tier customers
• Offers 8K 60 fps codecs with industry‑leading power efficiency
• New AI‑optimized NPU (WAVE‑N) targets image‑processing workloads
• Next‑gen Frame Buffer Compression cuts DRAM bandwidth and chip area
• Aiming for ISO 26262 ASIL‑B safety certification by 2026

Pulse Analysis

The multimedia IP sector is at a crossroads as 8K video, AI‑driven imaging and autonomous driving demand ever‑greater efficiency. Chips&Media, with two decades of codec expertise, has leveraged its modular architecture to deliver industry‑leading 8K 60 fps codecs that offload the host CPU, dramatically reducing power draw and silicon footprint. By pioneering early adoption of standards such as H.264, HEVC, AV1 and the upcoming AV2, the firm maintains a first‑to‑market advantage that resonates with SoC designers seeking rapid integration.

Beyond traditional video compression, Chips&Media’s next‑generation Frame Buffer Compression (FBC) tackles the DRAM bandwidth bottleneck that hampers high‑resolution processing. The on‑the‑fly compression algorithm slashes memory traffic while eliminating the need for large SRAM line buffers, translating into lower bill‑of‑materials and heat dissipation. Complementing FBC, the company’s image‑specific NPU, branded WAVE‑N, delivers near‑zero bandwidth consumption for AI‑enhanced video enhancement, positioning it as a differentiated solution for edge devices and automotive infotainment systems where power and latency are paramount.

The firm’s licensing‑plus‑royalty model creates a virtuous cycle: customers accelerate time‑to‑market with upfront IP licenses and share revenue as products ship, fostering strong loyalty—evidenced by a 90% repeat‑business rate. As Chips&Media pursues ISO 26262 ASIL‑B certification, its portfolio becomes increasingly attractive to safety‑critical automotive OEMs. This strategic blend of cutting‑edge technology, proven scalability across billions of units, and a collaborative business approach underscores its growing influence in the global multimedia IP landscape.