Amid a memory shortage, Micron is taking steps to acquire GDDR modules for gaming graphics cards to develop an alternative to HBM. According to a report from ETNews, Micron is exploring the potential of combining GDDR modules to create a solution with significantly increased capacity.
The report highlights that initially, a multi-layer GDDR architecture will be employed, consisting of approximately four layers. Prototypes are anticipated to emerge as early as next year. While the multi-layered GDDR assembly is a novel concept, the report does not delve into technical specifics. Previously, Micron had investigated multi-layer DRAM assembly, including LPDDR5X up to 16-Hi, achieving a capacity of 256GB per module.
Earlier, it was reported that Google’s TurboQuant caused a reduction in DDR5 prices, whereas gaming PCs are expected to see a price increase of 15-30%. This development could exacerbate the market crisis, much to the dismay of gamers. Currently, major manufacturers are striving to meet the demands of AI infrastructure development. Although traditional HBM technologies have sufficed for training advanced LLMs, the focus on memory is becoming increasingly crucial.
There are several potential solutions for Micron to address multi-layered GDDR configuration challenges by sacrificing clock frequency. The company, however, is committed to pioneering innovative solutions. Micron previously faced setbacks with HDM4 after NVIDIA’s certification delays. Despite presenting modules for Vera Rubin, shipments were reduced while competitors like Samsung expanded their supplies. A multi-layered GDDR configuration could have market potential if it proves economically more viable than HBM.
The report reiterates that while GDDR-based solutions will lag behind HBM in performance, they will offer greater memory capacity to support modern inference tasks. GDDR has not been as heavily impacted by the AI boom as LPDDR or DDR, as these memory modules have traditionally been limited to graphics processors. Considering Micron’s plan to vertically integrate GDDR for a new AI industry solution, the company might possess sufficient production capacity. Instead of alleviating the video card market shortage, Micron seems focused on meeting corporate demand.
However, the multi-layered design of LPDDR5X is considerably simpler compared to GDDR, given that the former is an energy-efficient module with acceptable heat dissipation. In the case of GDDR, Micron may face challenges in maintaining thermal integrity and signal integrity if wired connections are used.
Market turmoil might be averted as Google has developed a quantum algorithm that reduces AI memory requirements by six times.
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