ARM Extends Performance, Size and Power Efficiency Leadership with the First Cortex Processor on 32nm Process

32nm process based on high-k metal gate (HKMG) technology from the IBM-led joint development alliance

CAMBRIDGE, UK - ARM [(LSE: ARM); (Nasdaq: ARMH)] today announced that the world’s first ARM processor produced on 32nm High-K Metal Gate (HKMG) process technology will be shown at Mobile World Congress, Barcelona. It is the first ever 32nm Cortex™ family processor core, built with ARM Physical IP, on a test chip from the IBM Common Platform in its 32nm High-K metal gate (HKMG) process. This achievement will support ARM® semiconductor Partners in developing the market’s most competitive power, performance and area benefits alongside quicker time-to-market for product releases. ARM Partners will have access to the technology in 2009, with full production release in early 2010.

ARM is developing customized Physical IP targeted at achieving optimal power, performance and area for current and future Cortex processors, utilizing the unique attributes of the Common Platform 32/28nm HKMG technology. The 32nm chip demonstrates ARM’s commitment to early engagement with advanced processes, paving the way for ARM Partners to rapidly deploy products incorporating ARM technology on 32nm/28nm.

This development follows nine months of collaboration between ARM and the Common Platform. The successful test chip demonstrates that the critical technologies are proven and is an important stepping stone towards implementing the Cortex-A9 and future processors at advanced process nodes.

“This silicon proof is a key step in our roadmap to demonstrate the technical synergy between leading ARM processors, ARM Physical IP and the Common Platform process technology that delivers best-in-class performance, lowest power consumption and rapid time-to-market,” said Ian Drew, EVP Marketing, ARM. “It also shows that we are fully committed to affording our Partners the earliest possible opportunity to deploy ARM technology, in particular the Cortex-A9 processor and future processors, on the 32/28nm process.”

The chip comprises an ARM Cortex family processor implemented with ARM Physical IP prototype libraries as well as diverse test structures targeted at validating key technologies. ARM will develop and license an IP design platform including logic, memory and interface products, providing the opportunity for ARM and the IBM Common Platform to optimize products, reduce risk and improve time-to-market.

“Our collaboration on advanced 32/28nm process technology with ARM will ensure rapid deployment of this best-in-class technology for our customers,” said Dr. Seung-Ho Hwang, Sr. VP of Infrastructure Design at Samsung Electronics. “We are committed to producing next-generation products with advanced, attractive features and longer battery life. ARM technology will help drive Samsung’s product development of innovative, energy-efficient, high-performance products now and in the future.”

See the test chip at Mobile World Congress 16-19 February 2009

The 32nm Cortex test chip will be available to view on the ARM stand in Hall 1, booth 1C01.

ARM designs the technology that lies at the heart of advanced digital products, from wireless, networking and consumer entertainment solutions to imaging, automotive, security and storage devices. ARM’s comprehensive product offering includes 32-bit RISC microprocessors, graphics processors, video engines, enabling software, cell libraries, embedded memories, high-speed connectivity products, peripherals and development tools. Combined with comprehensive design services, training, support and maintenance, and the company’s broad Partner community, they provide a total system solution that offers a fast, reliable path to market for leading electronics companies. More information on ARM is available at http://www.arm.com

ARM is a registered trademark of ARM Limited. Cortex is a trademark of ARM Limited. All other brands or product names are the property of their respective holders. “ARM” is used to represent ARM Holdings plc; its operating company ARM Limited; and the regional subsidiaries: ARM, Inc.; ARM KK; ARM Korea Ltd.; ARM Taiwan Limited; ARM France SAS; ARM Consulting (Shanghai) Co. Ltd.; ARM Belgium N.V.; AXYS Design Automation Inc.; ARM Germany GmbH; ARM Embedded Technologies Pvt. Ltd.; ARM Norway, AS; and ARM Sweden AB.