The next generation of smartphones or tablets could have two times the memory of the current generation, thanks to Samsung, which is developing a 12 Gbit LPDDR4 DRAM chip that will allow for phones with 6 GB of RAM.

The chips are based on the 20-nanometer-class process technology, meaning that they will fit in the same amount of space as a 3 GB chip in today's phones, or allow for 3 GB chips that take up half as much space.

"By initiating mass production of 12 Gb LPDDR4 mobile DRAM in an extremely timely manner, we now are not only helping OEMs to accelerate their moves to the next generation of mobile devices, but also providing functionality that will give mobile consumers greatly enhanced user experiences," said Joo Sun Choi, Samsung's executive vice president of Memory Sales.

The chips are also significantly faster, offering a 30 percent speed increase over the 20nm-based 8 Gbit LPDDR4 chips. Not only that, but the chips are also two times as fast as DDR4 chips on PC computers and consume 20 percent less energy.

The new 12 Gbit LPDDR4 will open the door for 3 GB and 6 GB mobile DRAM in one package, using two or four chips, respectively. In the past, 8 Gbit chip technology has allowed for a maximum of 4 GB in one module.

It is largely expected that the technology could be used beyond just smartphones, and that it could also be used in tablets, ultra-thin PCs and even in-car devices.

Via: Computer World