Core Viewpoint - The supply chain for NVIDIA's next-generation AI accelerator, Vera Rubin, has been finalized, with Samsung and SK Hynix securing the core supplier status for the sixth-generation high-bandwidth memory (HBM4), while Micron has unexpectedly been excluded from the top-tier supply chain [1][2]. Group 1: Importance of HBM4 - HBM4 is critical for the success of Vera Rubin, as it serves as the "data highway" for AI chips, directly impacting GPU performance efficiency [2][5]. - NVIDIA has set stringent requirements for HBM4, including a minimum operating speed of over 10 Gb/s, surpassing the JEDEC standard of 8 Gb/s, and a total capacity of 576 GB, which is 33% more than AMD's next-generation AI accelerator MI450 [2][5]. Group 2: Supplier Dynamics - Samsung and SK Hynix excelled in meeting NVIDIA's dual performance and yield standards, with Samsung already completing performance tests and delivering HBM4 samples, while SK Hynix is optimizing for higher speed targets [5][6]. - Micron, previously a core supplier for NVIDIA's HBM3E, has been excluded from the HBM4 supply chain for top-tier AI training accelerators, although it may still provide products for mid-range AI inference accelerators [6][7]. Group 3: Market Implications - The competition for NVIDIA's orders is intense, as being part of its supply chain signifies top-tier technical recognition and the potential for explosive growth driven by AI demand [7]. - The HBM market is experiencing a supply-demand imbalance, with a global capacity shortfall exceeding 40%, leading to increased costs and profit margins for suppliers like Samsung and SK Hynix [7][9]. Group 4: Future Developments - Vera Rubin is set to be unveiled at NVIDIA's GTC 2026 developer conference on March 16, with a full release expected in the second half of the year [9]. - NVIDIA aims to enhance Vera Rubin's performance by over five times compared to existing products, with the high-quality HBM4 supply from Samsung and SK Hynix being crucial for overcoming performance bottlenecks [9].