Intel Chooses Smarter Memory Integration Instead of Making Memory Chips Again

However, there will be no return of Intel into the production of DRAMs. At least this is what Intel's Chief Financial Officer (CFO) David Zinsner stated in the recent Deutsche Bank Technology Conference.

This was the reaction to some comments by the Intel CEO Lip Bu Tan which created an impression that Intel might come back into this business. Tan referred to investments into memory-related technologies and integration as well as to Intel's partnership with the experts in this field, such as the former leader of SK hynix.

There is no need to perceive this as preparations for setting up a new Intel memory factory. David Zinsner said that it will be better if Intel avoids entering the classic memory business.

Certainly, Intel is familiar with this business because it produced DRAMs from 1968 until mid 1980s. Much later, it even started a NAND business but sold it to SK hynix.

The Real Strategy Is Better Integration

Intel now wants to focus on how processors and memory work together. According to Zinsner, Tan sees Intel as an important partner for the world’s three major memory manufacturers. Intel regularly discusses new technologies and joint projects with these companies.

The company also wants to design processors and architectures that interact with memory more efficiently. Technologies such as EMIB T packaging could play an important role by improving how different components connect inside advanced computing systems.

What It Means For You

From our perspective, the practical approach is being adopted by Intel. Rather than entering the competitive battle with established leaders of the memory industry, it can optimize the interface between CPUs, accelerators, and memory.

This, in your case, may eventually result in faster systems, improved energy efficiency, and enhanced performance for artificial intelligence loads without Intel developing its own DRAM manufacturing processes.