Nordic VLSI ASA becomes Nordic Semiconductor ASA

Oslo, Norway - May 14th, 2004 - Nordic Semiconductor today announced that it has changed its company name from Nordic VLSI. The new name, Nordic Semiconductor, identifies the company as a semiconductor component supplier.

Founded in Norway in 1983, the company started as a traditional ASIC design house, selling consulting services to individual customers. Over the last 10 years, Nordic has gradually and purposely transitioned itself from design services to component delivery, firstly because of the goal to become a supplier of standard RF components. "We are now turning into a leading European fabless semiconductor supplier of standard RF components, and have already made agreements and contracts with a number of world leading customers", says Svenn-Tore Larsen, CEO of Nordic Semiconductors.

Supplying components is now the key contributor to the company's operating revenue. This will amplify as the company moves forward.

About Nordic Semiconductor ASA
Founded in 1983, Nordic Semiconductor (former Nordic VLSI) has evolved steadily from the traditional ASIC design house into a leading European fabless semiconductor supplier. With world-class IC design expertise focused on RF/mixed-mode and advanced back-end/physical design capabilities, Nordic is currently marketing and selling three product families: a ground-breaking portfolio of standard components for wireless communication, high performance dataconverter IPs and custom design and manufacturing services (ASIC). With the ultra compact 2.4GHz transceiver and transmitter families, nRF24XX, the company has established itself as a market leader within the wireless personal interface segment comprising applications such as gamepads, keyboard/mouse and sports equipment. Nordic's products are manufactured on ultra modern technologies through strong relationships with world leading manufacturing facilities and are sold through a world-wide distribution network. The company has offices in Trondheim and Oslo, Norway, and is listed on the Norwegian Stock Exchange (OSX: NOD). All operations are managed according to the ISO 9001-approved quality assurance system. 

For information: www.nordicsemi.no