Shortage of high-density NAND flash memory expected in 2010

Supply of high-density NAND flash memory will fall short of demand in 2010, as suppliers' overall output has not been increased substantially to keep up with the potential growth in demand for smartphone applications, according to sources at memory makers. Despite this shortage, the sources estimated prices for low-density parts based on mature processes will be slashed significantly next year.

Though the outlook for NAND flash is rosy in 2010, the sources pointed out major chip suppliers are still reluctant to spend on expanding capacity. They tend to boost production through migration to more advanced process geometries. However, increases of this scale will not be sufficient if the market for high-end phones heats up more, according to the sources.