TrendForce：AI存储需求激发HDD替代效应 NAND Flash供应商加速转进大容量Nearline SSD

Core Insights - The demand for real-time access and high-speed processing of massive data is rapidly increasing due to AI inference applications, prompting HDD and SSD suppliers to expand their offerings of high-capacity storage products [1][2] - The HDD market is currently facing a significant supply gap, which is encouraging NAND Flash manufacturers to accelerate the production of ultra-large capacity Nearline SSDs, such as 122TB and 245TB models [1] - The HDD industry is undergoing a painful technological transition, with high initial costs associated with the new HAMR technology leading to a rise in average selling prices (ASP Per GB) from $0.012-$0.013 to $0.015-$0.016, undermining HDD's core cost advantage [1][2] Industry Dynamics - SSDs offer significantly higher IOPS and lower latency compared to HDDs, making them more efficient for AI workloads that involve random data access and quick model parameter retrieval [2] - The power consumption of SSDs is much lower than that of HDDs, which can lead to substantial savings in electricity, cooling costs, and rack space for large data centers, offsetting the higher initial purchase costs of SSDs [2] - As the HDD industry upgrades to HAMR technology and achieves economies of scale, there will be potential for cost optimization; however, NAND Flash's structural advantages in cost reduction and capacity expansion remain significant [2] Market Opportunities - The emergence of the Nearline SSD market presents a significant opportunity for NAND Flash suppliers seeking to diversify beyond smartphone and PC demands, positioning them well for the competition in data center storage architecture over the next decade [2]