NAND flash memory stores data and other media contained in consumer electronics products, retaining information even when the power is turned off. The drive toward smaller NAND processes enables the continued development and introduction of new uses for the technology.

“To lead the entire semiconductor industry with the most advanced process technology is a phenomenal feat for Intel and Micron, and we look forward to further pushing the scaling limits,” said Brian Shirley, vice president of Micron’s memory group. “This production technology will enable significant benefits to our customers through higher density media solutions.”

The 25nm, 8GB device is sampling now and is expected to enter mass production in the second quarter of 2010. The new 25nm 8GB device reduces chip count by 50 percent compared to previous process generations, allowing for smaller, yet higher density designs and greater cost efficiencies. For example, a 256GB solid-state drive (SSD) can now be enabled with just 32 of these devices (versus 64 previously), a 32GB smartphone needs just four, and a 16GB flash card requires only two.

Combining high density with improved security functionality enables operators to offer graphically-rich, value-added services such as mobile banking and contactless mobile ticketing. Further, operators can securely update or delete applications through their wireless network while new applications, services and settings can be downloaded or pushed to the HD-SIM at any time to maintain fast time-to-market.