They have always done the characterisation testing (speed,...

They have always done the characterisation testing (speed, retention, endurance) post fabrication at IMEC in their own lab. Which makes sense - you don't want to be on IMEC's clock whilst doing this work and you can maintain a more secure environment. Not to mention, you don't have to live out of a suitcase in Belgium while you're doing the work.

They have said that in previous lots some characteristics have not been quantifiable due to limitations of the equipment.
Sounds like now there is equipment that is capable of doing this.

Normally you only develop an in-house solution if there is nothing commercially available for you to buy - you don't do it because it's the cheap alternative.

I'm not trying to pump this up but at least there is information coming from the company re. progress.