While AI tools are increasingly common in PCB manufacturing, fewer than 10 percent of companies have fully deployed them across operations due to integration, data and workforce challenges. Researchers developed a machine learning-assisted design framework for flexible carbon nanotube circuits that combine sensing and edge computing on a single ultrathin platform.

Has AI gone mainstream in PCB manufacturing? AI adoption is now widespread across the PCB industry, but fewer than 10 percent of manufacturers have achieved factory-wide deployment, highlighting ongoing challenges in scaling pilot projects into production.

Could custom SRAM simplify SoC design? Memory developers say tailored SRAM configurations can improve floorplanning, timing closure and overall chip efficiency.

Researchers developed a machine learning-assisted design framework for flexible carbon nanotube edge-computing circuits, creating ultrathin wearable electronics that integrate sensing and processing on a single platform.

A new analysis argues New York City is well-positioned to become a leading hub for applied AI by leveraging its strengths in finance, healthcare, law and other regulated industries where proprietary data and compliance requirements create durable competitive advantages.

Researchers at Purdue University demonstrated monolayer MoS₂ nanoribbon transistors with channel widths as small as 30–40nm that achieved higher current density.

The UK launched an AI Hardware Plan that includes an 108M semiconductor skills package aimed at addressing a projected shortage of 10,400 workers by 2030.

CJ Clark of Tomachie joined PCB Chat to discuss how the company's AI-driven platform analyzes PCB schematics, optimizes DfT strategies, identifies test point locations, and generates layout-readiness scores to support design teams.

PCEA will host a webinar on flex and rigid-flex circuit design June 24 featuring Dave Lackey covering manufacturability, materials, tooling and fabrication considerations.

PCEA issued a call for abstracts for PCB East 2027, seeking technical presentations on PCB design, fabrication, assembly, test, packaging and additive manufacturing ahead of the April event in Worcester.

Registration is open for PCB West 2026, which will feature more than 120 hours of PCB design and assembly training this September in Santa Clara.

Looking for networking opportunities? Join the PCEA Discord server, bringing together engineers and designers from around the world on a private channel for discussing technical questions and career opportunities.

Chase Corp. acquired Sheldahl from Flex.

Surging memory prices forced Chinese smartphone makers to reduce shipments of mid- to low-end models and raise product prices in the first quarter of 2026, causing global smartphone shipments for the quarter to fall 5.6 percent year-over-year to 278M units.

UK Circuits expanded its manufacturing capacity through a new partnership that included the purchase of an SMT production line.

India's EMS market is projected to grow from $40-45N in 2025 to more than $150B by 2030.

Globetronics plans to raise over $6M through a private placement to fund SMT capability upgrades and advanced packaging expansion.

The European Commission unveiled Chips Act 2.0, a revised semiconductor strategy focused on accelerating innovation, expanding manufacturing incentives, streamlining permitting and strengthening Europe's semiconductor supply chain competitiveness.

Incap appointed Murthy Munipalli president of Asia Pacific and Ralf Hasler president of Europe.

SigmaTron appointed former Norwood Medical CEO Jim Kircher chief executive officer.

Reflow AI – Before There was Artificial Intelligence
PCD&F/CIRCUITS ASSEMBLY

On-Demand Additive Nanomanufacturing of Electronics in Microgravity: Towards In-Space Manufacturing of Electronics and Functional Devices
NPJ Advanced Manufacturing

Stretchable Neuromorphic Electronics for Future Human-Integrated Intelligence
International Journal of Extreme Manufacturing

EVENTS

PCB Update is a digital newsletter for PCB design, fabrication and assembly professionals, brought to you by Printed Circuit Engineering Association™. E-mail industry press releases or links to the editors of CIRCUITS ASSEMBLY or PCD&F: pr@pcea.net.