RISC-V secure microcontroller designer renames to SealSQ
SealSQ in Switzerland is rebranding its RISC-V chip development business as SealSQ France as it starts production of secure devices.
This strategic change from WISeKey Semiconductor is aimed at accelerating the development of post-quantum semiconductor technologies in Meyreuil, Aix-en-Provence, France.
WISeKey International is Swiss holding company that covers SealSQ, which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products as well as WISeKey SA for IoT and AI, WISeSat AG which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, and WISe.ART for trusted blockchain NFTs.
SealSQ France has a chip design centre with 60 engineers developing secure elements, roots of trust, cryptographic keys, and hardware security modules. The engineering team in Meyreuil has successfully completed the design phase of the QUASARS post-quantum RISC-V project.
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The team is now starting production of the first engineering samples of post-quantum secure microcontroller, anticipated to be delivered by year end. These align with recommendations from the French National Agency for the Security of Information Systems (ANSSI).
The QS7001 RISC V quantum-resistant platform will form the foundation for SealSQ’s upcoming products, the Post Quantum Secure Microcontroller and TPM known as VaultIQ. The hardware of these chips will meet the Common Criteria EAL5+ certification, while the firmware will incorporate the Kyber and Dilithium post-quantum algorithms for NIST FIPS 140-3 certification.
SealSQ has started talks with major electronics manufacturers to develop custom quantum-resistant chips that meet specific customer requirements. This marks a significant advance in the company’s commercial and industrial strategy, opening avenues for new business opportunities and revenue streams.
SealSQ France is also actively seeking funding under the European Chips Act (ECA) for further RISC-V chip designs and plans to recruit more staff for the development of secure microcontrollers. These products act as digital passports to authenticate machines and high-value IoT devices, serving as a cornerstone for new US Cybertrust Mark and European ETSI standards now imposed on connected device manufacturers to protect users from cybercrime and industries from counterfeiting.
“The strategic aspect of maintaining and developing post-quantum technology in France is particularly beneficial as it not only ensures that this key technology remains in France, thus strengthening our independence in the next-generation semiconductor sector, but it also stimulates investment cooperation between France and Switzerland. By increasing our investment in France, we are consolidating the foundations of a lasting technological and economic partnership that benefits the entire European ecosystem,” said Carlos Moreira, CEO of SealSQ (above).
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