Samsung, the second-largest memory chip maker after SK Hynix, is set to end production of its DDR4 chips to focus on newer technologies. DigiTimes Asia reports that orders for DDR4 memory chips will end in early June, with delivery for 8GB and 16GB laptop and desktop modules expected by December 2025. The company is making the move to free up manufacturing capacity for more lucrative technologies, including DDR5 and LPDDR5 memory for newer systems, as well as HBMs for GPUs and AI systems.
However, another possible reason that leading companies like SK Hynix, Samsung, and Micron are leaving the DDR4 market is the glut of cheaper options from Chinese manufacturers. CXMT and Fujian Jinhua have reportedly been undercutting memory prices by 50%, making them even more affordable than some reused chips. These companies have been able to capitalize on the leading companies’ focus on leading-edge technology, such as how two South Korean companies abandoned DDR3 production to focus on HMB3 last year, thereby outpacing them in the production of older technologies.
