Micron Technology(US:MU) Xi Niu Cai Jing·2025-06-18 09:04Core Insights - The announcement from Micron Technology to phase out DDR4 memory production signifies the accelerated end of the DDR4 era, as major Korean manufacturers Samsung and SK Hynix have also decided to halt DDR4 production, indicating a shift towards DDR5 and HBM technologies [2][4] - Despite DDR4 entering its end-of-life phase, market demand remains unexpectedly strong due to supply-side capacity reductions and a lag in the transition to DDR5 products, alongside stable demand from industrial, security, and television markets [2][3] - The current surge in DDR4 spot prices, with some models exceeding the prices of new-generation DDR5 products, reflects a temporary supply-demand imbalance in the market [2][3] Market Dynamics - Recent data from TrendForce indicates a significant increase in DDR4 spot prices, with DDR4 8Gb (1G×8) 3200 rising by 7.8% to an average of $3.775, and DDR4 16Gb (1G×16) 3200 increasing by 7.9% to $8.2 [3] - The average price of DDR4 8Gb (1G×8) 3200 has surged by 38.27% compared to the end of May, highlighting the rapid price escalation in the DDR4 segment [3] Strategic Shifts - Micron's decision to stop DDR4 production is not only a signal of technological evolution but also reflects a strategic restructuring within the global memory industry, moving from scale competition to a focus on technological ecosystems driven by AI and high-performance computing [4] - Chinese memory manufacturers, such as ChangXin Storage, are also adapting to this trend, with plans to cease DDR4 supply by mid-2026, indicating a shift towards high-end products [3][4] - The ability of Chinese firms to accumulate technology and overcome DDR5 patent barriers will be crucial for their future market positioning as DDR4 phases out [4]