Stiffener ring for packages with micro-cable/optical connectors

A semiconductor package includes a package substrate, a semiconductor chip disposed on the package substrate, and a stiffener disposed on the package substrate. The stiffener includes an inner portion configured to surround the semiconductor chip, the inner portion defining a space on the package substrate external to the inner portion and located between the inner portion and outer edges of the package substrate, and a plurality of leg portions extending outwardly from the inner portion toward one or more of the outer edges of the package substrate and corners of the package substrate.