SK Hynix Unveils Custom HBM Variants for 30x Performance Boost

Ryu, the spokesperson for SK Hynix, recently shared the company's ambitious plans at the SK Icheon Forum 2024 in Seoul. He emphasized the goal of developing products with significantly improved performance compared to current HBM technology. According to Business Korea, Ryu stated, "We aim to develop products with 20 to 30 times the performance of current HBM, focusing on introducing differentiated products."

SK Hynix's strong position in the DRAM market, particularly with its early adoption of HBM, has given the company a competitive edge. HBM has become the preferred format for AI processor cards and systems, including those used by Nvidia. With competitors like Samsung and Micron in the mix, SK Hynix is determined to maintain and expand its lead in the industry.

Looking ahead, Ryu suggested that the market could shift towards customized private memory architectures and physical formats. He revealed that SK Hynix has been approached by the "magnificent seven," a group consisting of major US tech companies such as Apple, Microsoft, and Google. Business Korea quoted Ryu as saying, "All members of the magnificent seven have approached us requesting custom HBM solutions."

SK Hynix, along with Samsung and Micron, is gearing up to introduce HBM3E DRAMs and plans to launch the HBM4 format in 2025. Ryu emphasized the importance of setting memory specifications rather than merely following the lead of other companies. "We need to create our own memory semiconductor specifications rather than following specific companies," he stated.

As the memory market undergoes a significant transformation with a growing demand for custom products, SK Hynix is poised to capitalize on these opportunities. Ryu expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate this changing landscape, stating, "We are at a significant turning point in the HBM paradigm, with increasing demands for custom products. We will continue to develop the memory business by seizing these opportunities."