Pacific Biosciences sold select short‑read sequencing intellectual property and related assets to Illumina for $48.1 million, signaling PacBio’s renewed focus on long‑read sequencing and optics while Illumina augments its short‑read portfolio. The assets include technology PacBio acquired via Apton and Omniome that supported its Onso platform. PacBio said the transaction sharpens its strategic focus and strengthens its balance sheet; Illumina gains additional short‑read capabilities. The deal underscores further consolidation in sequencing technology as firms prioritize core platform strengths and cost structures heading into a competitive instrument market.