The US government has imposed fresh export controls on the sale of high-tech memory chips used in artificial intelligence (AI) applications to China. The rules apply to both US-made and foreign-produced high bandwidth memory (HBM) technology.
High Bandwidth Memory: A Stack of Small Chips
High bandwidth memory (HBM) is a stack of small memory chips that store data more efficiently than conventional DRAM technology. These chips are used in graphic cards, high-performance computing systems, data centers, and autonomous vehicles, making them crucial for AI applications like generative AI.
Impact on China
The US export restrictions aim to block China’s access to critical technology that could give it a military edge. However, experts say these restrictions will slow China’s development of AI chips in the short term but may not completely stall its ability to produce high-quality HBM.
Leading Manufacturers: Yangtze and Changxin
In China, Yangtze Memory Technologies and Changxin Memory Technologies are leading manufacturers of memory chips. They are ramping up capacity to build HBM production lines, aiming to achieve tech self-sufficiency.
Why High Bandwidth Memory Matters
HBM’s larger storage space and faster data transmission speeds make it essential for AI applications, enabling smooth performance without delays or glitches. The technology is critical for training large language models, allowing them to process more parameters.
Top Makers: SK Hynix, Samsung, and Micron
The global market of high bandwidth memory (HBM) is dominated by just three companies: SK Hynix (50%), Samsung (40%), and Micron (10%). These firms are expected to maintain their shares in the coming years.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2024/12/08/tech/us-china-hbm-chips-hnk-intl/index.html