Samsung Extends DDR4 Memory Production to 2026
2025-08-07
According to a report by South Korean media outlet The Elec, Samsung Electronics has decided to extend the production timeline of DDR4 1z DRAM to 2026. Previously, Samsung had planned to gradually phase out the production of DDR4 DRAM on this process by the end of 2025. However, due to changes in the market environment and adjustments in the company's own strategy, Samsung has ultimately decided to continue maintaining the production of DDR4.
Reasons and Market Factors
Samsung is lagging behind its competitors SK Hynix and Micron in terms of certification and mass production progress in the high-bandwidth memory (HBM) field. HBM memory chips are in high demand for artificial intelligence applications, and Samsung is currently ramping up its HBM production capacity. Due to the delay in HBM production, Samsung has decided to continue operating the DDR4 production line to fully utilize existing capacity. The 1z production line has been fully depreciated, resulting in lower production costs, and the continued production of DDR4 can significantly enhance the profitability of the chip business.Moreover, the recent rapid increase in DDR4 DRAM prices has become another important factor for Samsung's decision to extend the production period. Due to a reduction in overall chip supply and a rebound in short-term demand, DDR4 DRAM has experienced the largest generational price inversion in DRAM history. Major DRAM manufacturers SK Hynix and Micron have significantly reduced their DDR4 DRAM output in order to boost HBM production capacity. In addition, some equipment manufacturers have been stockpiling DDR4 inventory in anticipation of U.S. tariffs. According to data from DRAMeXchange, as of the end of July 2025, the fixed price of PC DDR4 8Gb (1Gx8) had surged by 50% compared to the previous month, reaching $3.9. Over the past three months, the price of this chip has been growing at a double-digit rate. Meanwhile, the contract price for 8GB DDR4 memory modules in July reached $26.5, which is higher than the $25.5 for the new-generation DDR5 modules.
Industry Impact and Future Outlook
Samsung's decision to extend the DDR4 production cycle may help alleviate the current supply-and-demand imbalance. However, this extension also indirectly reflects that Samsung's plan to expand HBM production capacity has not proceeded smoothly according to the original schedule. Despite this, Samsung is still working hard to enhance its HBM production capacity and market competitiveness. With the surge in emerging demands such as AI and cloud computing, as well as the accelerated substitution process of DDR5, the DDR5 market is expected to witness a true recovery in 2026. Samsung's decision is not only a flexible response to the current market environment but also a preparation for future market competition.
Semicon Integrated Circuit Solutions
Semicon is a premier distributor specializing in high-performance semiconductor chips, catering to diverse electronic needs. Discover Semicone's popular IC models:
● LMK00334RTVR: A high-performance clock generator with low jitter, ideal for high-speed communication systems.
● SPC58EN80C3RMHBR: An automotive-grade microcontroller with advanced safety features, perfect for automotive applications.
● STGB30H60DLLFBAG: A high-voltage, high-current IGBT module, suitable for industrial power conversion.
● UCC5350MCQDRQ1: A high-efficiency gate driver for power modules, designed for robust and reliable performance.
Email: info@semicone.com
SkyWater Acquires Infineon's Factory: Strategic Move and Future Outlook
onsemi's SiC Technology Boosts Xiaomi YU7 Series Electric SUVs
Related Article
Micron skips 10th-gen NAND, jumping from 276-layer G9 to 400+ layer G11 with wafer-to-wafer bonding, targeting AI and an H2 2027 ramp.
Node Selection: Micron Skips 10th-Generation NAND
A guide covers how clock generators work, eight representative ICs compared, sourcing pitfalls and where to buy.
Clock Generator: From PLL Fundamentals to Selection and Procurement
