Samsung and SK Hynix Team up to Standardize LPDDR6-PIM Memory
When we think of memory manufacturers, Samsung and SK Hynix usually come to mind as the dominant players in the industry, controlling a significant share of both production and sales. SK Hynix currently holds a larger portion of the market, generating double the revenue of Samsung's semiconductor division. However, their rivalry hasn’t stopped them from collaborating.
The two companies have been competing in the high-bandwidth memory (HBM) sector for some time, but recent reports from South Korea reveal that they have agreed to work together on developing LPDDR6-PIM memory. This new technology is designed to enhance low-power memory capabilities, especially for applications in Artificial Intelligence. The AI market growth estimates for 2030 are expected to reach figures of 173.9 billion dollars.
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Samsung and SK Hynix are still in the initial phases of their collaboration, working with JEDEC to establish the specifications for LPDDR-PIM memory, which differ significantly from traditional memory standards.
A representative from Samsung stated:
"The two companies are in discussions and collaborating on product standardization. Since our cooperation is just beginning, we are in the process of laying out implementation plans for the target standardization timeline."
Both companies recognize that PIM technology represents a major growth opportunity in the coming years. By joining forces, they aim to streamline development timelines, a strategy likely spurred on by the South Korean government’s support.
Samsung is offering its HBM and LPDDR5 memory integrated with PIM technology, while SK Hynix brings its GDDR6-PIM to the table. Despite their individual efforts to establish their technologies as industry standards, both companies have faced challenges. By collaborating, they hope to accelerate development and prevent competitors from other countries, such as China, from outpacing them in the lucrative memory market.
