Memory Chip

The semiconductor industry anticipates a memory chip shortage due to surging AI demand, diverting resources towards advanced memory solutions and impacting other sectors like consumer electronics and automotive. SMIC’s CEO noted client hesitation in placing orders for other chips. Analysts highlight under-investment in production capacity following recent downturns, exacerbating supply constraints. Memory companies are reportedly increasing prices, with potential impacts on low-end devices and consumers, who may face higher electronics prices.

SoftBank and Intel are partnering to develop an AI-specific memory chip, Saimemory, aiming to reduce AI computing power consumption by up to 50%. This stacked DRAM chip, utilizing an innovative wiring architecture, promises improved energy efficiency and supports sustainable AI data centers. With an estimated $64 million investment, a prototype is expected within two years, targeting commercial deployment in the late 2020s, starting with SoftBank’s AI data centers. Other research institutions and the government are expected to offer support as the project progresses.