深圳中微，进军Nor Flash

Group 1 - The article highlights that a company is set to launch its first 4M bit low-power SPI NOR Flash chip, filling a gap in its product line within the Flash sector. This product features low cost, low power consumption, high-speed read/write capabilities, and non-volatile memory, catering to small storage needs. This marks a significant step for the company, which primarily focuses on microcontrollers (MCUs), into the high-demand storage chip market [1][2] - The company, Zhongwei Semiconductor, is a platform-based chip design enterprise specializing in mixed-signal chip design centered around MCUs, providing "MCU + supporting chip" solutions widely used in smart home appliances, consumer electronics, and industrial control. It holds a leading market share in the domestic smart home appliance MCU chip sector and is one of the major MCU suppliers in China [1][2] - The current surge in the storage chip market is attributed to a profound adjustment in global supply and demand dynamics, driven by the rapid growth of artificial intelligence infrastructure, leading to unprecedented demand for high-end memory. Major international companies like Micron Technology have warned of ongoing shortages [1][2] Group 2 - TrendForce forecasts a significant quarter-on-quarter increase in contract prices for DRAM and NAND Flash in Q1 2026. This context has led downstream customers to increasingly seek supply chain diversification and stability, presenting a rare market entry opportunity for domestic chip companies [2] - Zhongwei Semiconductor's extension from its core MCU field into storage chips reflects the domestic semiconductor industry's efforts to seize industry upturn opportunities and enhance supply chain autonomy and competitiveness. If this strategic attempt succeeds, it could strengthen the company's influence in critical chip sectors during the domestic substitution process [2] - However, the storage industry is characterized by strong cyclical fluctuations, indicating that the current AI-driven high demand may face turning points due to supply and demand changes. For new entrants like Zhongwei Semiconductor, the ability to manage technology, market dynamics, and cyclical challenges will be crucial for success in this competitive landscape [2]