United Microelectronics Corp. posted earnings per share of NT$1.20 ($0.039) for the third quarter, marking an eight-quarter high, as the Taiwanese chipmaker benefited from a recovery in consumer electronics demand and growing adoption of its older manufacturing processes.
The foundry reported revenue of NT$59.13 billion ($1.94 billion) for the quarter ended September, up a modest 0.6% from the prior period but down 2.2% year-over-year. Net income reached NT$14.98 billion ($492 million) with a gross margin of 29.8%, according to the company’s statement released Tuesday.
Co-President Jason Wang cited increased demand across most market segments, which drove wafer shipments up 3.4% and lifted capacity utilization to 78%. The company attributed part of the growth to clients replenishing inventory following improved sales of smartphones and laptops.
UMC emphasized its 22-nanometer technology platform, which now accounts for more than 10% of total sales—a notable milestone for a process node that lags behind industry-leading technologies. The company projects over 50 product designs will be finalized using the 22nm platform in 2025, with revenue contribution expected to increase next year.
The foundry also announced its 55nm bipolar-CMOS-DMOS platform is production-ready, targeting automotive and industrial applications. The technology meets automotive standards, though UMC trails far behind industry leader Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., which dominates advanced nodes and holds roughly 70% of the global foundry market.
