In a groundbreaking move, SK hynix, the world’s second-largest memory chipmaker, has announced the commencement of shipments for its 16-gigabyte packages of Low Power Double Data Rate 5 Turbo (LPDDR5T) – the fastest mobile DRAM available today. The recipient of this cutting-edge technology is none other than Chinese smartphone giant Vivo, who will be integrating these memory chips into their latest smartphone models, the X100 and X100 Pro.
LPDDR is a low-power DRAM specifically designed for mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets. It focuses on minimizing power consumption and operates at low voltages, making it an ideal choice for devices where energy efficiency is crucial.
According to SK hynix, LPDDR5T represents a significant leap in smartphone memory technology, offering the highest speed ever achieved. The new LPDDR5T boasts an impressive data transfer rate of 9.6 gigabits per second and can process a staggering 77GB of data per second. To put this into perspective, this is equivalent to transferring 15 full high-definition movies in just one second.
The LPDDR5T’s integration into Vivo’s X100 and X100 Pro smartphones is not the only exciting aspect of this announcement. These mobile devices will also feature MediaTek’s latest flagship mobile application processor (AP), the Dimensity 9300. SK hynix has completed performance verification for this powerful combination, ensuring a seamless and high-performance user experience.
SK hynix is not just stopping at this significant milestone. The company has emphasized its commitment to expanding the application range of LPDDR5T, aiming to lead the generational shift in the mobile DRAM sector. Park Myoung-soo, Vice President and Head of DRAM Marketing at SK hynix, highlighted the growing demand for high-performing, high-capacity mobile DRAM in the market, especially as smartphones become essential devices for implementing on-device AI technology.
On-device artificial intelligence technology is a pivotal aspect of modern smartphones, allowing devices to implement AI capabilities locally rather than relying on external servers. This shift enables devices to collect and process information autonomously, enhancing user experience and responsiveness.
An SK hynix official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, emphasized the critical role of DRAM capacity in on-device AI, influencing a smartphone’s ability to remember user commands and process them swiftly.
The LPDDR5T 16GB package operates in the ultralow voltage range of 1.01 to 1.12 volts as set by the Joint Electron Device Engineering Council. These specifications mark the seventh generation of LPDDR, succeeding the series that includes 1, 2, 3, 4, 4X, 5, and 5X.
This announcement comes on the heels of SK hynix’s earlier revelation of LPDDR5T in January, positioned as an upgraded product of the seventh generation, preceding the development of the eighth-generation LPDDR6. The mass production of this advanced product commenced in the second half of the current year.
In terms of business performance, SK hynix anticipates that the LPDDR5T will contribute significantly to its earnings, targeting the mass volume market of smartphones. Despite facing operating losses in the July-September period, primarily attributed to market challenges, the company experienced a turnaround in its DRAM business, thanks to strong sales of flagship chip products, including the high-capacity DDR5 and HBM3.
SK hynix’s strategic focus on pushing the boundaries of mobile DRAM technology underscores its commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation and meeting the evolving demands of the market. As the partnership with Vivo unfolds, consumers can expect a new era of smartphones with unparalleled speed and efficiency, setting the stage for a future where mobile devices seamlessly integrate advanced technologies.
(Source: Jo He-rim | The Korea Herald | Kwanwoo Jun | MarketWatch)
