2026 Semiconductor Trends to Watch: The Rising Risk of Obsolescence

Dr. Bill Bradford of Flip Electronics unpacks the 2026 semiconductor trends to watch, revealing how Moore’s Law, AI demand and global volatility are accelerating component obsolescence and what supply chain leaders can do now to stay ahead.
Jan. 5, 2026

In this episode of Supply Chain Connect, Dr. Bill Bradford, President of Flip Electronics, joins the show to break down the key 2026 semiconductor trends to watch, with a special focus on the rising risk of component obsolescence. Dr. Bradford explains how Moore’s Law, post‑pandemic inventory shifts, AI‑driven capacity demands and geopolitical uncertainty are squeezing legacy chips and putting long‑life sectors like aerospace and defense, industrial, medical and automotive at risk. Dr. Bradford also shares a practical playbook for staying ahead of end‑of‑life shocks and counterfeit exposure.

About the Author

Tyler Fussner

Managing Editor - Community Manager | Supply Chain Connect

Tyler Fussner is Managing Editor - Community Manager at Supply Chain Connect, part of the Design & Engineering Group at Endeavor Business Media.

Previously, Fussner served as the Associate Editor for Fleet Maintenance magazine. As part of Endeavor's Commercial Vehicle Group, his work has been published in FleetOwner magazine, as well as Bulk TransporterRefrigerated Transporter, and Trailer-Body Builders.

Fussner's May 2022 print feature 'The dawn of hydrogen trucks' was named the best single technology article in B2B by the judges of the 2022 Folio: Eddie and Ozzie Awards. Fussner was also awarded Silver in the Technical Article category for the Trade Association Business Publications International (TABPI) 2021 Tabbie Awards.

Fussner previously served as Assistant Editor for Endeavor's Transportation Group on the PTEN, Professional Distributor, and VehicleServicePros.com brands.

Fussner studied professional writing and publishing at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. He has experience in shop operations, is a Michelin Certified Tire Technician, and a Michelin Certified Tire Salesperson.

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