Intel and Micron have announced 3D XPoint technology, which they call a major breakthrough in memory-process technology and the first new memory category since the introduction of NAND flash.
What makes 3D XPoint technology unique is that it’s up to 1,000 times faster and more durable than NAND, and it’s also 10 times denser than conventional memory, which means more data can be stored closer to the processor and quicker access time.
“One of the most significant hurdles in modern computing is the time it takes the processor to reach data on long-term storage,” said Mark Adams, president of Micron. “This new class of non-volatile memory is a revolutionary technology that allows for quick access to enormous data sets and enables entirely new applications.”
Intel and Micron point to possible uses of the new technology, given the speed (and other) benefits it brings. In one scenario, the technology can be used to quickly identify fraud detection patterns in financial transactions. In another setup, healthcare researchers are able to process and analyze larger data sets in real time.
As for the PC experience, 3D XPoint enables faster interactive social media and collaborations and a better gaming experience.
The press release says the technology is currently in production, with samples arriving later this year for select customers. Both companies are developing individual products based on the technology. As for Apple, at this point, it is unclear whether it will adopt the technology when it becomes available, but the possibility is there since the company usually adopts new (tested) technology to improve the performance of its devices.
