Micron Samples Next-Gen Graphics Memory for Gaming and AI
Micron Technology (Nasdaq: MU) has announced the sampling of its next-generation GDDR7 graphics memory at Computex, Taipei. Leveraging 1β DRAM technology, GDDR7 offers 32 Gb/s high-performance with over 1.5 TB/s bandwidth, a 60% increase compared to GDDR6. It also boasts a 50% power-efficiency improvement and up to 70% reduced standby power. GDDR7 enhances gaming and AI applications by increasing throughput by 33% and reducing response times by 20%, with anticipated 30% FPS improvement in graphics cards. It completes Micron's product portfolio for edge AI and high-performance computing. Cadence and AMD have collaborated with Micron on this launch, with product availability set for the second half of 2024.
- Micron's GDDR7 offers over 1.5 TB/s bandwidth, a 60% increase from GDDR6.
- 32 Gb/s high-performance memory enabled by 1β DRAM technology.
- Power-efficiency improvement of over 50% and standby power reduction of up to 70%.
- 33% increase in throughput and 20% reduction in response times for AI workloads.
- Expected 30% FPS improvement in graphics cards for ray tracing and rasterization.
- GDDR7 completes Micron's product portfolio for edge AI and high-performance computing.
- Collaboration with AMD and Cadence signifies strong industry support.
- No immediate availability; products will be available in the second half of 2024.
Insights
Micron's announcement of GDDR7 marks an important leap in graphic memory technology, showcasing a substantial evolution from its predecessor, GDDR6. This new memory technology boasts over 1.5 TB/s of system bandwidth, which is a significant improvement. With a 60% increase in bandwidth and a greater than 50% power-efficiency improvement, GDDR7 is poised to significantly enhance both gaming and AI applications.
One key innovation is the four independent channels in GDDR7, which optimize workloads and result in faster response times and smoother gameplay. This will be particularly beneficial for high-resolution gaming and AI-driven tasks, reducing processing time and improving overall performance. Gamers and AI developers will appreciate the 30% improvement in frames per second (FPS) for ray tracing and rasterization, indicating a higher level of detail and realism in visuals.
From a technical perspective, the introduction of PAM3 signaling builds on the previous success of PAM4 in GDDR6X, potentially paving the way for future advancements. This also suggests that Micron is setting a strong foundation for continuous innovation in the graphics memory domain.
For investors, this indicates that Micron is not only maintaining its position at the cutting edge of memory technology but is also laying the groundwork for sustained growth in a competitive market.
The introduction of GDDR7 by Micron highlights a strategic move to strengthen its product portfolio and cater to the growing demands of the gaming and AI markets. With expectations that GDDR7 will provide over a 30% improvement in FPS for key gaming metrics, this development positions Micron to capitalize on the increasing demand for high-performance graphics solutions.
From a market perspective, the enhanced power-efficiency and thermal management features of GDDR7 will be critical in attracting OEMs and end customers who are increasingly conscious of energy consumption and device longevity. Additionally, the broadening of application areas to include edge AI inference and high-performance computing workloads further diversifies the potential customer base and reduces market risks.
Micron's strong collaboration with industry players like AMD and Cadence signals robust ecosystem support, which can accelerate the adoption of GDDR7. This cooperative approach is likely to ensure rapid market penetration and a strong competitive advantage.
Overall, the market implications suggest a positive outlook for Micron. Investors should note the potential for increased revenue streams and market share in the graphics memory segment.
Micron GDDR7 delivers the unparalleled graphics experience with over 1.5 TB/s of system bandwidth
TAIPEI, Taiwan, June 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Computex -- Micron Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: MU), today announced the sampling of its next-generation GDDR7 graphics memory with the industry’s highest bit density.1 Leveraging Micron’s 1β (1-beta) DRAM technology and innovative architecture, Micron GDDR7 delivers 32 Gb/s high-performance memory in a power-optimized design. With over 1.5 TB/s of system bandwidth,2 which is up to
Micron GDDR7 memory offers high performance that increases throughput by up to
“Micron is once again at the forefront of memory innovation, developing the highest bandwidth solutions available, built with advanced process and interface technology to enable continued graphics performance leadership,” said Praveen Vaidyanathan, vice president and general manager of the Compute Products Group at Micron. “The best-in-class capabilities of Micron GDDR7 memory help bring new levels of realism and performance to the most demanding applications.”
With over five years of successful high-volume manufacturing of GDDR6X, Micron has consistently delivered world-class performance and quality. These same attributes — along with mature technology, design and test experience — will help accelerate the adoption of GDDR7 and provide full spectrum support for the product’s manufacturing ramp. Micron introduced PAM4 signaling on GDDR6X, delivering leadership performance of more than a
Ecosystem partners on the Micron GDDR7 memory solution
“At AMD we are committed to creating the most immersive gaming experiences. Our work with Micron on GDDR7 advances our shared goal,” said Joe Macri, senior vice president and corporate fellow at AMD. “We are excited about Micron's launch of GDDR7, and we look forward to leveraging this technology to make gaming even more responsive and lifelike.”
“Cadence has a strong history of collaboration with Micron to develop industry-leading memory IP subsystem solutions for GDDR, HBM, DDR and LPDDR,” said Boyd Phelps, senior vice president and general manager of the Silicon Solutions Group at Cadence. “We are using samples of Micron's leading 1β DRAM technology-based GDDR7 to test and validate GDDR7 PHY IP operating at speeds up to 36 Gb/s.”
Micron GDDR7 memory will be available directly from Micron and through select global channel distributors and resellers in the second half of calendar year 2024. For more information, visit the Micron GDDR7 page.
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About Micron Technology, Inc.
We are an industry leader in innovative memory and storage solutions transforming how the world uses information to enrich life for all. With a relentless focus on our customers, technology leadership, and manufacturing and operational excellence, Micron delivers a rich portfolio of high-performance DRAM, NAND and NOR memory and storage products through our Micron® and Crucial® brands. Every day, the innovations that our people create fuel the data economy, enabling advances in artificial intelligence and 5G applications that unleash opportunities — from the data center to the intelligent edge and across the client and mobile user experience. To learn more about Micron Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: MU), visit micron.com.
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1 Bit density extrapolated based on Gb per wafer across GDDR7 vendors.
2 1.5 TB/s bandwidth is based on a 384-bit memory bus width.
3 Component pin speed between GDDR7 and GDDR6 specification.
4 Burst read power-efficiency comparison between GDDR7 and GDDR6.
5 Standby power comparison between GDDR7 and GDDR6.
6 GDDR7 inference-workload expected improvements from higher bandwidth.
7 GDDR7 expected FPS for rasterization and ray tracing benchmarks.
8 Performance based on GDDR6 and GDDR6X component specs.
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