RISC-V Secure Microcontroller Designer Rebrands as SealSQ

SealSQ, a leading semiconductor company based in Switzerland, is undergoing a significant transformation by rebranding its RISC-V chip development business as SealSQ France. This strategic move comes as the company gears up for the production of secure devices, marking a new chapter in its commitment to advancing post-quantum semiconductor technologies.

Under the umbrella of WISeKey International, a Swiss holding company, SealSQ focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products. The decision to establish SealSQ France in Meyreuil, Aix-en-Provence, France, is aimed at accelerating the development of cutting-edge semiconductor technologies in collaboration with a talented team of engineers.

SealSQ France boasts a dedicated chip design center with 60 skilled engineers specializing in the development of secure elements, roots of trust, cryptographic keys, and hardware security modules. The team in Meyreuil has successfully completed the design phase of the QUASARS post-quantum RISC-V project, signaling a major milestone in their journey towards innovation.

The next phase for SealSQ France involves the commencement of production for the first engineering samples of a post-quantum secure microcontroller, with delivery expected by the end of the year. These efforts align closely with recommendations from the French National Agency for the Security of Information Systems (ANSSI), underscoring the company's commitment to meeting stringent security standards.

One of the key products in the pipeline is the QS7001 RISC V quantum-resistant platform, which will serve as the foundation for SealSQ's upcoming offerings, including the Post Quantum Secure Microcontroller and TPM known as VaultIQ. These chips are designed to meet rigorous certification standards, ensuring robust security features that align with industry requirements.

SealSQ has initiated discussions with major electronics manufacturers to explore the development of custom quantum-resistant chips tailored to specific customer needs. This strategic move not only enhances the company's commercial and industrial strategy but also paves the way for new business opportunities and revenue streams in the evolving semiconductor landscape.

Furthermore, SealSQ France is actively pursuing funding opportunities under the European Chips Act (ECA) to support additional RISC-V chip designs. The company also plans to expand its workforce to bolster the development of secure microcontrollers, which play a crucial role in authenticating machines and high-value IoT devices.

Carlos Moreira, CEO of SealSQ, emphasized the strategic importance of investing in post-quantum technology in France, highlighting the benefits of strengthening technological independence and fostering investment cooperation between France and Switzerland. This collaborative approach not only solidifies the company's presence in the semiconductor sector but also contributes to the growth of the European ecosystem as a whole.