Micron unveils compact UFS 4.0 chipset for mobile devices

Micron Technology today announced at MWC 2024 that they’re rolling out improved versions of their Universal Flash Storage (UFS) 4.0 for mobile devices.

The new UFS 4.0 is smaller at 9×13 mm and holds up to 1 terabyte (TB) of data. It promises faster speeds, making flagship smartphones more responsive.

This new UFS 4.0 boosts performance with sequential read and write speeds of up to 4300 and 4000 megabytes per second (MBps) respectively, double that of previous versions.

According to the company, loading large language models in AI applications is now 40% faster, which enhances the user experience when interacting with AI digital companions.

Micron has shrunk the package size of its UFS 4.0 solution from 11×13 mm to 9×13 mm, making it the most compact managed NAND package available. This makes it ideal for foldable and slim smartphones, allowing for larger batteries.

Micron’s UFS 4.0 comes with custom firmware updates tailored to enhance user experience:

• High-Performance Mode (HPM): Prioritizes critical tasks during intensive smartphone use, resulting in over 25% faster storage access during heavy usage.
• One Button Refresh (OBR): Automatically cleans and optimizes data to maintain peak performance, resulting in faster app launches and seamless multitasking.
• Zoned UFS (ZUFS): Allows for data to be stored in different zones, minimizing write amplification and extending the smartphone’s lifespan.

Collaborative Innovation

Micron’s engineers developed these firmware features through extensive research, real-world simulations, and collaboration with customers.

Working closely with smartphone OEMs in labs across the U.S., China, and Korea, Micron addresses critical pain points and tailors solutions to meet specific needs.

Availability

Micron announced that samples of the upgraded UFS 4.0 in capacities of 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB are now available for shipping.

Commenting on the launch, Mark Montierth, General Manager and Corporate Vice President of Micron’s Mobile Business Unit, stated,

Micron’s newest UFS 4.0 solution delivers top-notch storage performance and minimized power consumption in the smallest UFS package globally. Equipped with groundbreaking firmware upgrades that maintain smartphones’ peak performance, Micron UFS 4.0 sets a new standard for mobile storage, offering improved performance, versatility, and scalability to expedite the deployment of AI-capable smartphones.