0730 GMT - MediaTek has strengthened its position in the premium smartphone chip market over the past few years, Counterpoint Research analyst Shivani Parashar says in a report. Since the launch of its Dimensity 9000 chip in 2022, it has expanded its presence across flagship Android smartphones, supported by deeper partnerships with Chinese smartphone makers, she says. The recent launch of the Dimensity 9600 Pro marks another important step in MediaTek's premium push, she says. The timing is particularly important as the premium smartphone segment enters a more challenging cost environment with rising memory prices, she notes. MediaTek faces several competitors in the premium smartphone chip segment, including Qualcomm, Samsung Electronics and Huawei's HiSilicon, she adds. Shares last ended 0.6% lower at $4,950 New Taiwan dollars.