Method for package-on-package assembly with wire bonds to encapsulation surface

A microelectronic assembly (10) includes a substrate (12) having a first and second opposed surfaces. A microelectronic element (22) overlies the first surface and first electrically conductive elements (28) can be exposed at at least one of the first surface or second surfaces. Some of the first conductive elements (28) are electrically connected to the microelectronic element (22). Wire bonds (32) have bases (34) joined to the conductive elements (28) and end surfaces (38) remote from the substrate and the bases, each wire bond defining an edge surface (37) extending between the base and the end surface. An encapsulation layer (42) can extend from the first surface and fill spaces between the wire bonds, such that the wire bonds can be separated by the encapsulation layer. Unencapsulated portions of the wire bonds (32) are defined by at least portions of the end surfaces (38) of the wire bonds that are uncovered by the encapsulation layer (42).