Synaptics

{{short description|American computer-to-human interface company}}

{{About|the semiconductor manufacturer||Synaptic (disambiguation)}}

{{Infobox company

| name = Synaptics, Inc.

| trading_name =

| logo = Synaptics logo (2022).svg

| logo_caption =

| image =

| image_caption =

| type = Public

| traded_as = {{ubl|{{NASDAQ|SYNA}}|S&P 400 component}}

| predecessor =

| successor =

| defunct =

| fate =

| area_served =

| key_people = {{unbulleted list|Nelson Chan (chairman)|Rahul Patel (CEO)}}

| industry = Computer hardware and software

| products = {{ubl|TouchPads |ClearPad touch controllers |Natural ID and Clear ID fingerprint sensors |ClearView display drivers |TouchView TDDI|AudioSmart DSPs and SOCs |VideoSmart processors |ImagingSmart processors}}

| production =

| services =

| revenue = {{decrease}} {{US$|959 million|link=yes}} (2024)

| operating_income = {{decrease}} {{US$|-102 million}} (2024)

| net_income = {{increase}} {{US$|126 million}} (2024)

| assets = {{increase}} {{US$|2.83 billion}} (2024)

| equity = {{increase}} {{US$|1.47 billion}} (2024)

| owner =

| num_employees = 1,716 (2024)

| parent =

| divisions =

| subsid =

| footnotes = Financials {{asof|2024|6|29|lc=y|df=US}}.{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/817720/000095017024100261/syna-20240629.htm |title=Synaptics Incorporated FY 2024 Annual Report (Form 10-K) |date=23 August 2024 |publisher=U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission}}

| intl =

| homepage = {{URL|synaptics.com}}

| former type =

| foundation = {{start date and age|1986}}, in California, U.S.

| founders = {{ubl|Federico Faggin|Carver Mead}}

| location_city =

| location_country =

| location = San Jose, California, U.S.

| bodystyle =

}}

Synaptics, Inc. is an American neural network technologies and computer-to-human interface devices development company based in San Jose, California.{{Cite web|url=https://www.losaltosonline.com/news/chipping-in-on-history-federico-faggin-co-inventor-of-the-microprocessor-still-setting-the-rec/article_80074530-850c-562f-81e8-ca4dfe35b144.html|title=Chipping in on history: Federico Faggin, co-inventor of the microprocessor, still setting the rec|first=John Flood-Town Crier Staff|last=Writer|date=January 17, 2007|website=Los Altos Town Crier}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.mercurynews.com/2018/07/06/rick-bergman-sees-that-synaptics-stays-in-touch-with-technology/|title=Rick Bergman sees that Synaptics stays in touch with technology|date=July 6, 2018}} It develops touchpads and fingerprint biometrics technology for computer laptops; touch, display driver, and fingerprint biometrics technology for smartphones; and touch, video and far-field voice, low-power AI processors, and wireless technology for smart home devices, wearables, and automobiles. Synaptics sells its products to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and display manufacturers.

Synaptics invented a prolific design for a computer touchpad, the click wheel on the classic iPod, Android phones' touch sensors, touch and display driver integrated chips (TDDI), and fingerprint sensors. Its technology is used in devices such as PCs, wearables, drones, gaming systems, media systems, cars, industrial security and monitoring equipment, and virtual reality headsets.

History

=1986{{ndash}}1998: Initial years=

Federico Faggin and Carver Mead founded Synaptics in 1986.{{cite news|last1=Takahashi|first1=Dean|title=Synaptics' Francis Lee on the magic of touch|url=https://venturebeat.com/2009/01/20/synaptics-francis-lee-on-the-magic-of-touch/|access-date=13 March 2018|work=Venture Beat|date=20 January 2009}}{{cite news|last1=Fisher|first1=Lawrence M.|title=Technology; A Pioneer is Out on a Limb Again|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1990/01/21/business/technology-a-pioneer-is-out-on-a-limb-again.html|access-date=13 March 2018|work=The New York Times|date=21 January 1990}} They used their research on neural networks and transistors on chips to build pattern recognition products such as the "Silicon Retina", a circuit board emulating the human retina's visual processing.{{Cite magazine |date=February 1989 |title=Mead's Silicon Retina Points Toward Brain-Like Processing |url=https://archive.org/details/eu_BYTE-1989-02_OCR/page/n14/mode/1up?view=theater |access-date=2024-10-08 |magazine=BYTE |page=11}} In 1991, Synaptics patented a refined "winner take all" circuit for teaching neural networks how to recognize patterns and images. The circuit uses basic physics principles in order to select the strongest signal from the different processors.

In 1992, the company used the pattern recognition techniques it developed to build the world's first touchpad for laptop computers that allowed users to control the cursor and click with no additional mechanical buttons. The pad was a replacement for trackballs and mice used at the time.{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1994/10/24/business/pad-to-replace-computer-mouse-is-set-for-debut.html|title=Pad to Replace Computer Mouse Is Set for Debut|last=Markoff|first=John|date=1994-10-24|newspaper=The New York Times|issn=0362-4331|access-date=2016-06-21}} By 1994, Twinhead and Epson America had adopted Synaptics' touchpad for their computers (Epson with the ActionNote),{{cite magazine |last=Miner |first=Nicola |date=7 November 1994 |title=Synaptics introduces neural TouchPad device |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ejgEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA39 |magazine=InfoWorld |page=32 |access-date=27 March 2018 }} followed by Apple in 1995 and later by other computer manufacturers, including Compaq and Dell.{{cite magazine |last=Brown |first=J. |date=1 March 2001 |title=Sign Online |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=1gwAAAAAMBAJ&pg=RA1-PA166 |magazine=CIO |page=166 |access-date=27 March 2018 }}

=1999{{ndash}}2010: Initial public offering and growth=

In 1999, Francis Lee took over as CEO. A year later, in 2000, Synaptics started selling touch technology for digital media players.{{Cite web|url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2008-oct-01-fi-touch1-story.html|title=Helping digit-ize Google phones|first=Michelle|last=Quinn|date=October 1, 2008|website=Los Angeles Times}}

In 2002, Synaptics had an initial public offering.{{cite news|last1=Hennessey|first1=Raymond|title=Synaptics Makes Strong Debut In Kick Off for 2002 IPO Market|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB1012335603386968240|access-date=14 March 2018|work=The Wall Street Journal|date=30 January 2002}} As adoption of the touchpad grew, Synaptics sought to integrate the technology with other products.{{cite news|title=Touchy Touchy |last=Whelan|first=David|url=https://www.forbes.com/global/2005/1031/066A.html?sh=77f3c69878ee |access-date=21 February 2022|work=Forbes Asia |date=31 October 2005}} In 2004, Apple debuted the iPod Mini and fourth-generation iPod, both featuring a scrolling click wheel that used Synaptics' capacitive touch technology. Synaptics also provided a similar but vertical click wheel for the Creative Zen Touch portable media player.{{cite news|last1=Van Buskirk|first1=Eliot|title=The secret of iPod's scroll wheel|url=https://www.cnet.com/news/the-secret-of-ipods-scroll-wheel/|access-date=13 March 2018|work=CNET|date=22 September 2004}}

In 2005, Synaptics sensors were featured in the Samsung B310, the first mobile phone to use capacitive-touch technology. In October 2006, Synaptics provided a live demonstration of the Onyx, a concept smartphone with a color touchscreen enabled by its ClearPad touch controller technology. The Onyx's touch sensor could tell the difference between a finger and a cheek, preventing accidental inputs during calls.{{cite news|last1=Lee|first1=Timothy B.|title=If Android is a "stolen product," then so was the iPhone|url=https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2012/02/if-android-is-a-stolen-product-then-so-was-the-iphone/|access-date=11 March 2018|work=Ars Technica|date=23 February 2012}}{{cite news|last1=Chen|first1=Jason|title=Synaptics Onyx Concept Phone Demoed|url=https://gizmodo.com/205616/synaptics-onyx-concept-phone-demoed|access-date=11 March 2018|work=Gizmodo|date=5 October 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130917020856/https://gizmodo.com/205616/synaptics-onyx-concept-phone-demoed |archive-date=2013-09-17}}{{cite news|last1=Rojas|first1=Peter|title=The Onyx - Synaptics' ClearPad concept phone|url=https://www.engadget.com/2006/08/21/the-onyx-synaptics-clearpad-concept-phone/|access-date=11 March 2018|work=Engadget|date=21 August 2006}} The company's touch technology was used in LG's Prada phone in 2007, which was the world's first mobile phone with a capacitive touchscreen.

In 2008, touch sensors developed by Synaptics were used in T-Mobile's G1 phone, one of the first Android phones. In the same year, Federico Faggin retired from the board of directors of Synaptics.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mercurynews.com/2007/10/27/a-nice-send-off-for-retirement/|title=A nice send-off for retirement|date=October 28, 2007}}

In 2009, Synaptics announced the development of the Fuse concept smartphone. It had touch sensitivity on the back of the phone, the ability to interact with the phone by squeezing, animated icons, a user interface sensitive to the phone's orientation and tilt, and haptic gestures.{{cite news|last1=Trenholm|first1=Richard|title=Synaptics Fuse: Multi-input concept phone gets a grip|url=https://www.cnet.com/news/synaptics-fuse-multi-input-concept-phone-gets-a-grip/|access-date=27 March 2018|work=CNET|date=9 January 2010}}{{cite news|last1=Miller|first1=Paul|title=Synaptics Fuse concept handset puts a new squeeze on touchphone interaction|url=https://www.engadget.com/2009/12/14/synaptics-fuse-concept-handset-puts-a-new-squeeze-on-touchphone/|access-date=27 March 2018|work=Engadget|date=14 December 2009}}{{cite news|last1=Ganapati|first1=Priya|title=Squeeze, Grip and Tilt to Control Synaptics' Concept Phone|url=https://www.wired.com/2009/12/fuse-synaptics-concept/|access-date=27 March 2018|magazine=Wired|date=14 December 2009}}

=2011{{ndash}}2019: Expansion, acquisitions, and further growth=

In 2011, Synaptics appointed Rick Bergman to succeed Francis Lee as CEO.{{cite news|title=Rick Bergman joins Synaptics as chief exec|url=https://www.itproportal.com/2011/09/29/rick-bergman-joins-synaptics-chief-exec/|access-date=14 March 2018|work=ITProPortal|date=29 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150928192211/https://www.itproportal.com/2011/09/29/rick-bergman-joins-synaptics-chief-exec/ |archive-date=2015-09-28}}

In 2012, Synaptics introduced the first pressure recognizing touchscreen, which allowed multi-finger and variable-force input.{{cite news|last1=Covert|first1=Adrian|title=Synaptics ForcePad: The Laptop Trackpad Is About to Change Forever|url=https://gizmodo.com/5936158/synaptics-forcepad-your-future-windows-8-trackpad-is-about-to-change-forever|access-date=16 March 2018|work=Gizmodo|date=20 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120822102849/https://gizmodo.com/5936158/synaptics-forcepad-your-future-windows-8-trackpad-is-about-to-change-forever |archive-date=2012-08-22}}

In late 2013, Synaptics acquired Validity Sensors, a fingerprint sensor vendor, adding fingerprint sensing technology to the company.{{cite news|last1=Nusca|first1=Andrew|title=Synaptics acquires Validity for $255m; dives into biometrics|url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/synaptics-acquires-validity-for-255m-dives-into-biometrics/|access-date=14 March 2018|work=ZDNet|date=10 October 2013}}{{cite news|last1=Takahashi|first1=Dean|title=Synaptics moves into fingerprint ID with $255M purchase of startup Validity|url=https://venturebeat.com/2013/10/09/synaptics-moves-into-fingerprint-id-with-255m-purchase-of-startup-validity/|access-date=16 March 2018|work=Venture Beat|date=9 October 2013}} In the same year, Synaptics relocated its headquarters to San Jose from Santa Clara.{{Cite web |title=Synaptics grows again with $10 million property purchase |url=https://www.bizjournals.com/sanjose/news/2014/01/27/synaptics-grows-again-with-10-million.html |access-date=2024-11-13 |website=www.bizjournals.com}}{{Cite web | url=https://www.bizjournals.com/sanjose/news/2013/04/23/synaptics-sells-building-to-orchard.html| title=Orchard Partners snaps up Synaptics HQ| newspaper=Silicon Valley Business Journal| accessdate=2025-06-03}} Six months after the move, Synaptics expanded its campus, purchasing nearby property for $10 million.

Synaptics is a founding member of the FIDO (Fast ID Online) Alliance and the Universal Stylus Initiative (USI).{{cite news|last1=Smith|first1=Matt|title=Universal Stylus Initiative 1.0 is here, but devices won't be until 2018|url=https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/usi-version-1-launch/|access-date=16 March 2018|work=Digital Trends|date=22 September 2016}}{{cite news|last1=Gartenberg|first1=Chaim|title=Lenovo, Intel, Synaptics, and PayPal are working to kill passwords on your next laptop|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2016/9/23/13030014/fido-alliance-announced-laptop-password-fingerprint-security-lenovo-synaptics|access-date=16 March 2018|work=The Verge|date=23 September 2016}}

Synaptics acquired Renesas SP Drivers Inc., a Japanese company specializing in chips that manage LCD displays, in 2014.{{cite news|last1=Knight|first1=Sophie|last2=Chatterjee|first2=Soham|title=Synaptics CEO hopes to take bite of Apple by buying iPhone supplier|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-renesas-deals-synaptics/synaptics-ceo-hopes-to-take-bite-of-apple-by-buying-iphone-supplier-idUSKBN0EL2AB20140611|access-date=14 March 2018|work=Reuters|date=11 June 2014}} The acquisition enabled Synaptics to combine touch and display driver technologies into a single "TDDI" (Touch and Display Driver Integration) chip.{{cite news|last1=Stynes|first1=Tess|last2=Clark|first2=Don|title=Synaptics Agrees to Acquire Renesas SP Drivers|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/synaptics-agrees-to-acquire-renesas-sp-drivers-1402434317|access-date=11 March 2018|work=The Wall Street Journal|date=10 June 2014}}

In 2015, the company expanded into additional markets, including automotive, wearables and PC peripherals.{{cite news|last1=Takahashi|first1=Dean|title=Synaptics and Valeo unveil tech for sensing force and touch in automobiles|url=https://venturebeat.com/2016/02/01/synaptics-and-valeo-unveil-clearforce-tech-for-sensing-force-and-touch-in-car-displays/|access-date=27 March 2018|work=Venture Beat|date=1 February 2016}}{{cite news|last1=Burns|first1=Chris|title=Synaptics bringing biometric and print-reading handles to cars|url=https://www.slashgear.com/synaptics-bringing-biometric-and-print-reading-handles-to-cars-09413803/|access-date=27 March 2018|work=SlashGear|date=9 November 2015}} In July 2015, Synaptics announced a unique “match-in-sensor” fingerprint authenticator for laptops and other devices that authenticates the fingerprint within the chip.{{cite news|last1=Takahashi|first1=Dean|title=Synaptics creates a way to easily authenticate your fingerprint on a laptop|url=https://venturebeat.com/2015/07/09/synaptics-creates-a-way-to-easily-authenticate-your-fingerprint-on-a-laptop/|access-date=11 March 2018|work=Venture Beat|date=9 July 2015}}{{cite news|last1=Carman|first1=Ashley|title=This fingerprint scanner fits into a USB port and will make your old PC more secure|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2016/6/6/11871454/this-usb-module-is-a-fingerprint-scanner-thatll-make-your-old-pc-more-secure|access-date=11 March 2018|work=The Verge|date=6 June 2016}}

The company introduced its first optical-based fingerprint sensor in December 2016, which would allow the sensor to be placed under smartphones' glass displays rather than under a separate button.{{cite news|last1=de Looper|first1=Christian|title=Synaptics' new fingerprint sensor puts all of 2016's devices to shame|url=https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/synaptics-fs9100-fingerprint-sensor/|access-date=11 March 2018|work=Digital Trends|date=13 December 2016}}{{cite news|last1=Rubin|first1=Ben Fox|title=Synaptics introduces a better fingerprint sensor|url=https://www.cnet.com/news/synaptics-introduces-a-better-fingerprint-sensor-fs4600/|access-date=12 March 2018|work=CNET|date=31 March 2017}} After improving the technology, the company sent it into full production a year later.{{cite news|last1=Savov|first1=Vlad|title=Fingerprint sensors under the display are going to be a real thing in 2018|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2017/12/13/16771044/synaptics-clear-id-fs9500-indisplay-fingerprint-sensor-oled|access-date=16 March 2018|work=The Verge|date=13 December 2017}} In January 2018, the Chinese company Vivo announced a smartphone featuring Synaptics' optical fingerprint sensor. This was the world’s first full-production smartphone with fingerprint authentication directly in the OLED display.{{cite news|last1=Siegal|first1=Jacob|title=Hands-on with the first retail phone to feature an in-display fingerprint sensor|url=http://bgr.com/2018/02/15/in-display-fingerprint-scanner-video-preview-vivo-x20-plus-ud/|access-date=16 March 2018|work=BGR|date=15 February 2018}}{{cite news|last1=Byford|first1=Sam|title=The world's first phone with an in-display fingerprint sensor is here|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2018/1/24/16926930/vivo-x20-plus-ud-fingerprint-scanner-in-screen-announcement-specs|access-date=16 March 2018|work=The Verge|date=24 January 2018}}

In July 2017, Synaptics acquired Conexant Systems, an Amazon Alexa partner that creates voice and audio software and silicon products for smart homes.{{cite news|last1=Chen|first1=I-Chun|title=Amazon Alexa partner Conexant to be sold for $300 million|url=https://www.bizjournals.com/losangeles/news/2017/06/14/amazon-alexa-partner-conexant-sold-to-synaptics.html|access-date=14 March 2018|work=L.A. Biz|date=14 June 2017}}{{cite press release|title=Synaptics Closes Acquisition of Conexant Systems|url=https://www.synaptics.com/company/news/conexant-acquisition-closes|access-date=20 April 2018|work=Synaptics|date=26 July 2017}} At the same time, Synaptics acquired Marvell Technology Group's Multimedia Solutions unit, which creates video and audio processing technology. The two acquisitions were intended to aid Synaptics' expansion into the Internet of things (IoT) market.{{cite news|last1=Wheatley|first1=Mike|title=Synaptics' shares rise after two acquisitions, strong earnings|url=https://siliconangle.com/blog/2017/06/12/synaptics-shares-jump-6-announces-2-acquisitions-strong-q4-earnings/|access-date=14 March 2018|work=SiliconANGLE|date=12 June 2017}}

In August 2019, the board of directors appointed Michael Hurlston as the new CEO.{{cite news|title=C-suite shuffle: Synaptics taps former Finisar, Broadcom exec as its new CEO, while former chief exec heads to AMD|url=https://www.bizjournals.com/sanjose/news/2019/08/05/c-suite-shuffle-synaptics-taps-former-finisar.html|access-date=19 January 2022|work=Silicon Valley Business Journal|date=5 August 2019}} Under Hurlston's leadership the company focused on growing its IoT business, expanding from its focus on sensors on glass towards development of low-power sensors to IoT devices.{{cite news|title=Michael Hurlston: How Synaptics pivoted from mobile/PC sensors to the internet of things

|last=Takahashi|first=Dean|url=https://venturebeat.com/2021/02/13/michael-hurlston-how-synaptics-pivoted-from-mobile-pc-sensors-to-the-internet-of-things/

|access-date=21 February 2022|work=VentureBeat|date=13 February 2021}}

=2020–present: Acquisitions, investments in IoT and AI technology=

In July 2020, Synaptics acquired DisplayLink, the developer of software and semiconductors that connect visual devices to computers.{{cite news|title=DisplayLink sold for $305m cash to Synaptics in deal valued at $407m

|last=Quested|first=Tony|url=https://www.businessweekly.co.uk/news/hi-tech/displaylink-sold-305m-cash-synaptics-deal-valued-407m |access-date=21 February 2022|work=Business Weekly|date=20 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919225029/https://www.businessweekly.co.uk/news/hi-tech/displaylink-sold-305m-cash-synaptics-deal-valued-407m |archive-date=2020-09-19}}

In December 2020, Synaptics and Eta Compute established a co-development partnership, with Synaptics investing in Eta's Series C funding.{{Cite web | url=https://www.bizjournals.com/losangeles/news/2020/12/15/eta-compute-gets-funding-for-ai-processing-tech.html| title=Eta Compute gets $12.5M funding for AI processing technology | newspaper=L.A. Business First| accessdate=2025-06-03}} The partnership allows Synaptics to use Eta's Tensai Flow software, including its AI applications and neural network tools, while Eta gains access to Synaptics' ultra-low-power Katana Edge AI SoC.

In July 2020, Synaptics acquired Broadcom's wireless IoT business assets and manufacturing rights.{{cite news|title=Synaptics Buys DSP Group for $538m to Add Audio to IoT Portfolio |last=Dahad|first=Nitin|url=https://www.eetimes.com/synaptics-buys-dsp-group-for-538m-to-add-audio-to-iot-portfolio/ |access-date=21 February 2022|work=EETimes|date=31 August 2021}}{{cite news|title=Broadcom Sells Wireless IoT Biz, This Time to Synaptics

|last=Santo|first=Brian|url=https://www.eetimes.com/broadcom-sells-wireless-iot-biz-this-time-to-synaptics/ |access-date=21 February 2022|work=EETimes|date=8 July 2020}} In December 2021, the company acquired DSP Group for $538 million, integrating voice and vision artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities into its portfolio and strengthening its wireless offerings with ultra-low-energy (ULE) enabled security applications{{Cite news|url=https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-synaptics-acquires-israeli-chipmaker-dsp-group-for-600m-1001383352 |title=Synaptics acquires Israeli chipmaker DSP Group for $540m|website=Globes.co.il|date=2021-08-30|access-date=2021-08-31}}{{cite news|title=Here are the top-performing technology stocks of 2021

|last=Levy|first=Ari|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2021/12/24/these-are-the-best-technology-stocks-of-2021.html

|access-date=21 February 2022|work=CNBC|date=24 December 2021}}

In February 2022, Synaptics sold its headquarters and North San Jose campus for $58 million.{{Cite web | url=https://www.bizjournals.com/sanjose/news/2022/02/10/synaptics-sells-headquarters-for-58m.html| title=Synaptics sold its headquarters and North San Jose campus for $58M | accessdate=2025-06-03}}

In October 2022, Synaptics acquired Emza Visual Sense, an Israel-based company specializing in ultra-low-power AI for visual sensing.{{Cite web|url=https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/hyw6lxebi|title=Synaptics acquires Israel's Emza and its AI visual sensing solutions from Taiwan's Himax for $10 million|date=November 2, 2022|website=ctech}}

In 2024, Synaptics introduced a platform based on its neural network processing technology for developers of Edge AI products. It provides hardware and software resources intended to support the creation of custom applications.{{Cite web|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/moorinsights/2024/04/16/synaptics-introduces-astra-platform-for-edge-ai/|title=Synaptics Introduces Astra Platform For Edge AI}}

Technology

Synaptics was founded as an AI-focused company to develop chips that utilize neural networks to mimic human brain functions.{{cite web | url=https://www.nytimes.com/1992/06/07/business/making-a-difference-driving-down-the-cost-curve.html | title=MAKING a DIFFERENCE; Driving Down the Cost Curve | website=The New York Times }}{{cite web | url=https://www.nytimes.com/1990/01/21/business/technology-a-pioneer-is-out-on-a-limb-again.html | title=Technology; A Pioneer is Out on a Limb Again (Published 1990) | website=The New York Times | date=21 January 1990 }}{{cite web | url=https://www.nytimes.com/1994/10/24/business/pad-to-replace-computer-mouse-is-set-for-debut.html | title=Pad to Replace Computer Mouse is Set for Debut (Published 1994) | website=The New York Times | date=24 October 1994 }}

In 1989, Synaptics received a patent for neural network-related circuitry designed to associate new events with previously learned ones.{{cite web | url=https://www.nytimes.com/1989/02/11/business/patents-developing-brain-like-computers.html | title=Patents; Developing Brain-Like Computers | website=The New York Times }}

In 1991, Synaptics researchers patented an enhancement of the "winner-take-all" circuit, originally developed by John Lazzaro at the University of Colorado.{{cite web | url=https://www.nytimes.com/1991/10/05/business/patents-circuit-could-help-computers-mimic-brain.html | title=Patents; Circuit Could Help Computers Mimic Brain (Published 1991) | website=The New York Times | date=5 October 1991 }} The circuit functions as a selector within a network of processors or neurons, identifying and amplifying the strongest signal based on fundamental physics principles. The patent introduced a method for dynamic recalibration of neurons, where the system self-tests against a reference pattern, adjusting biases by strengthening weaker signals and reducing overly sensitive ones. This allows for nearly instantaneous recalibrations, enabling continuous accuracy adjustments.

Synaptics also holds over 2000 patents for human technologies.{{cite news|last1=Champion|first1=Zach|title=Rick Bergman, CEO of Synaptics – giving tech a sense of touch|url=https://news.engin.umich.edu/2017/07/rick-bergman-ceo-of-synaptics-giving-tech-a-sense-of-touch/|work=The Michigan Engineer News Center|access-date=13 March 2018|date=19 July 2017 |archive-date=2018-04-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423234732/https://news.engin.umich.edu/2017/07/rick-bergman-ceo-of-synaptics-giving-tech-a-sense-of-touch/}} Many Synaptics products are based on capacitive sensing technology, sensing the electrical properties of the finger(s) touching the sensor, as opposed to a resistive touchscreen .{{cite web|url=http://www.phonescoop.com/glossary/term.php?gid=458 | title=Capacitive Touch — Phone Scoop |publisher=www.phonescoop.com|year=2010| access-date=2010-06-07}} Synaptics also has optical sensing technology.{{cite web|last1=Harris|first1=Tom|title=How Fingerprint Scanners Work|url=https://computer.howstuffworks.com/fingerprint-scanner.htm|website=HowStuffWorks|date=24 September 2002|access-date=16 March 2018}}

Products and services

File:Synaptics_Clear_ID_optical_fingerprint_sensor.png

Synaptics originally focused on developing touch technology products and later expanded into IoT technology. In 1992, Synaptics introduced a chip designed to read magnetic characters on checks, notable for its higher accuracy and speed in handling poorly printed text compared to conventional technologies. The chip produced by Synaptics I-1000 was used in the Gemstone Onyx check reader of Verifone.

In the automotive industry, Synaptics has developed technology that enables drivers to adjust heating controls on touch screens while wearing thick gloves in freezing temperatures.{{Cite web|url=https://www.freep.com/story/money/cars/2018/09/24/key-fobs-cars-fingerprint/1342163002/|title=Car technology about to see this 'revolutionary' change|first=Phoebe Wall|last=Howard|website=Detroit Free Press}} In September 2018, the company began testing fingerprint technology in cars. This biometric system allows vehicle owners to personalize settings such as music preferences, seat adjustments, navigation options, and temperature settings based on fingerprint recognition. It also enables parents to implement geofencing limits to control where and how far teenage drivers can travel.

As of 2024, Synaptics develops and markets products for connectivity, sensing, and processing, as well as touch and display drivers, focused on the IoT market. In addition to developing developing enterprise workspace technology such as docking stations.{{cite news|title=Wireless dual-display docking station ready by end of 2022

|last=Jary|first=Simon|url=https://www.techadvisor.com/article/745740/wireless-dual-display-docking-station-ready-by-end-of-2022.html

|access-date=21 September 2022|work=Tech Advisor|date=2 February 2022}} Synaptics' technology is used in devices including PCs, wearables, drones, gaming systems, media systems, cars, industrial security and monitoring equipment, and virtual reality headsets.

Its connectivity products include wireless connectivity, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth products, and technology such as its wireless device communications protocol, Matter, which enables devices to operate together regardless of their different wireless interfaces.{{cite news|title=Synaptics wins Best of Sensors 2022 for SYN4381 Triple Combo SoC

|last=|first=|url=https://www.fierceelectronics.com/sensors/synaptics-wins-best-sensors-2022-syn4381-triple-combo-soc

|access-date=29 August 2022|work=FierceElectronics |date=1 August 2022}} Synaptics acquired DisplayLink in 2020, adding that company's hardware technology for docking stations and video conferencing, and software for graphics connectivity to its products. It also develops wired connection products such as converters for USB Type-C to HDMI or DisplayPort, for high resolution video display.{{cite news|title=Synaptics chip paves the way for dual 2K VR headsets with 1,000 PPI

|last=Horowitz|first=Jeremy|url=https://venturebeat.com/games/synaptics-chip-paves-the-way-for-dual-2k-vr-headsets-with-1000-ppi/ |access-date=29 August 2022|work=Venture Beat |date=28 August 2018}}

Synaptics continues to develop laptop computer touchpads and fingerprint biometric technology, and other types of touch sensors and display drivers. It has also developed sensors for multiple parameters, including temperature, magnetic, capacitive, and inductive sensors that can be integrated into devices such as video game controllers, wearable devices such as earbuds.{{cite news|title=Reimagining How Humans Engage with Machines and Data

|last=Maxfield |first=Max |url=https://www.eejournal.com/article/reimagining-how-humans-engage-with-machines-and-data/

|access-date=29 August 2022|work=Electronic Engineering Journal |date=12 May 2022}} In 2016, Synaptics developed the FS9100, a fingerprint sensor that can function accurately beneath up to one millimeter of glass, making it easier to integrate under a device's display.{{Cite web|url=https://www.computerworld.com/article/1662606/synaptics-has-a-new-fingerprint-sensor-that-will-mean-smoother-phone-screens.html|title=Synaptics has a new fingerprint sensor that will mean smoother phone screens}}{{Cite web|url=https://mashable.com/article/fingerprint-scanner-under-smartphone-display?test_uuid=01iI2GpryXngy77uIpA3Y4B&test_variant=b|title=Hey, look: A fingerprint scanner under a smartphone screen|first=Jack|last=Morse|date=December 12, 2017|website=Mashable}}

Synaptics is also the developer of IronVeil, a technology that allows peripheral manufacturers to incorporate fingerprint recognition into devices such as mice, keyboards, and other peripherals compatible with Windows 10. IronVeil is a small embedded sensor measuring 0.15 by 0.39 inches, designed to authenticate users within 180 milliseconds.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/419280/synaptics-ironveil-imbues-your-mouse-with-biometric-security-and-windows-hello.html|title=Synaptics' IronVeil imbues your mouse with biometric security and Windows Hello|website=PCWorld}}

Synaptics develops a variety of types of chips, including low-power edge AI processors and system-on-chip (SoC) technology for devices, such as smart home wireless devices, headsets,{{cite news|title=Eta Compute Pivots Away From Silicon, Signs Deal with Synaptics

|last=Ward-Foxton|first=Sally|url=https://www.eetimes.com/eta-compute-pivots-away-from-silicon-signs-deal-with-synaptics/

|access-date=23 August 2022|work=EETimes |date=17 December 2020}} and for graphics connectivity for video displays.{{cite news|title=Synaptics Targets France for Wireless R&D Center

|last=Walko|first=John|url=https://www.eetimes.eu/synaptics-targets-france-for-wireless-rd-center/

|access-date=26 September 2022|work=EETimes |date=25 February 2022}} It develops and markets sound processing chips for voice recognition, used in voice controlled devices,{{cite news|title=Synaptics is planning to buy DSP Group for $22 a share |last=Wolverton|first=Troy|url=https://www.bizjournals.com/sanjose/news/2021/08/30/synaptics-to-buy-dsp-group-merger-san-jose.html |access-date=21 February 2022|work=Silicon Valley Business Journal

|date=31 August 2021}} including far-field voice DSPs.{{cite news|last1=Perala|first1=Alex|title=Harman Kardon Smart Speakers Feature Synaptics DSPs|url=https://mobileidworld.com/harman-kardon-smart-speakers-synaptics-dsps-901095/|access-date=14 March 2018|work=Mobile ID World|date=9 January 2018}}

In addition to its processors, it also develops display driver IC chips for technology such as VR headsets.

Leadership

=List of chief executive officers=

Federico Faggin (1986–1998)
Francis Lee (1998–2011){{Cite web|url=https://ece.ucdavis.edu/biography-francis-lee-74|title=Biography: Francis Lee, B.S. '74 | Electrical and Computer Engineering | UC Davis Engineering|first=Femi-Jide A.|last=Akinmoladun|date=March 20, 2023|website=ece.ucdavis.edu}}
Rick Bergman (2011–2019){{cite web | url=https://www.eetimes.com/bergman-becomes-ceo-at-synaptics/?_ga | title=Bergman becomes CEO at Synaptics | date=29 September 2011 }}
Michael Hurlston (2019–2025)
Ken Rizvi Interim CEO (February 2025 - May 2025)
Rahul Patel (June 2025 - Present){{Cite web | url=https://www.marketwatch.com/story/synaptics-names-rahul-patel-as-next-ceo-160f6983| title=Synaptics Names Rahul Patel as Next CEO| accessdate=2025-06-03}}