Maxscend Microelectronics Company Limited(SZ:300782) 半导体行业观察·2025-06-03 01:26Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges and opportunities faced by the domestic filter industry in China, particularly in the context of the growing demand for RF front-end (RFFE) components driven by advancements in 5G technology and other communication systems. It emphasizes the need for domestic companies to balance technology advancement, compliance, and cost control to succeed in a competitive landscape dominated by international giants [2][3][16]. Market Size and Competitive Landscape - The global RFFE market for mobile terminals is projected to reach $18 billion in 2024, with filters accounting for nearly half of this market. High-end 5G smartphones require over 60 filters per device, making filter costs a significant part of the bill of materials (BOM) [3]. - The domestic filter industry consists of three main types of players: IDM (Integrated Device Manufacturer), Fabless, and Foundry. Key players include Haoda Electronics and Deqing Huaying in the IDM category, while Weijie Chuangxin and Angruiwei focus on design innovation as Fabless companies [3]. - Current domestic products primarily consist of Normal SAW and TC-SAW filters, which are priced 20%-30% lower than those of international leaders like Murata and TDK, indicating a significant technology and brand premium gap [3]. Patent Risks and Compliance - Patent risks pose a significant threat to the industry, exemplified by Murata's malicious lawsuit against Zhaoshengwei in April 2024, highlighting the necessity for domestic firms to establish compliance systems and patent protections to avoid setbacks in their technological advancements [3]. Modular Transformation and Strategic Approaches - International giants like Skyworks and Qualcomm have adopted a modular approach, integrating filter technology into their power amplifier (PA) designs to create multifunctional modules, enhancing customer loyalty and creating a closed-loop ecosystem [5]. - The case of Murata's failed attempt to enter the transmitter module market due to a lack of PA design capabilities illustrates the importance of collaboration between PA manufacturers and filter companies to achieve optimal performance and cost balance [5]. Domestic Industry Strategies - Domestic filter manufacturers have accumulated sufficient technology in mid-to-low-end Normal SAW and TC-SAW products, leading to overcapacity and intensified competition. Companies like Weijie Chuangxin and Angruiwei are adopting flexible strategies by prioritizing "self-developed PA + outsourced filters" to mitigate financial pressures [6][7]. - IDM companies like Zhaoshengwei are facing challenges due to high capital expenditures and underutilization of production capacity, with an estimated utilization rate of around 65% for their filter production lines in 2024 [12]. Collaborative Innovation - The industry consensus suggests that a collaborative model where PA manufacturers lead and filter companies support is the most efficient path forward. This model allows for specialization in core technologies, such as substrate materials and high-Q design, while mitigating patent risks and cost pressures [8][16]. - The collaborative approach enhances module performance through optimized integration, improved thermal management, and cost flexibility, allowing for rapid production and compliance with international standards [10][11]. Future Outlook - The domestic RF front-end industry is at a critical juncture, transitioning from single-device breakthroughs to building a modular ecosystem. By strengthening patent layouts and enhancing collaborative efforts, domestic companies can potentially shift from being "followers" to "co-builders" of global RF front-end standards [16].