Key facts
- Kioxia Holdings has started shipping its next-generation flash memory chips.
- The company's technological lead over rivals is shrinking.
- The new chips are 332-layer, 10th-generation 3D flash memory.
- These chips offer 59% more data storage capacity than the previous generation.
- Kioxia's shares rose 9.2% in Tokyo after initially falling.
Kioxia Holdings has commenced shipping its latest generation of flash memory chips, a move aimed at preserving its competitive edge in the semiconductor market. The Japanese manufacturer is facing increasing pressure from rivals such as Samsung and SK, with its technological lead reportedly narrowing.
The company showcased its 10th-generation memory product, highlighting its high-density 3D flash memory technology designed for AI data centers. These new 332-layer chips boast a 59% increase in data storage capacity compared to Kioxia's previous flagship 8th-generation chip, alongside enhanced efficiency and transmission speeds.
Following the announcement, Kioxia's shares, which had experienced double-digit percentage losses, reversed course to close up 9.2% in Tokyo trading. CEO Hiroo Ota indicated that the company is prepared to increase production capacity if market demand warrants it.