Samsung Ditches In-House DRAM for Galaxy Z Flip 7, Taps Micron Exclusively

Samsung will exclusively use Micron’s DRAM chips in its upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 7. This decision marks a significant shift in the tech giant’s supply chain strategy. The move is directly tied to performance and heat management concerns. It highlights a growing trend of internal divisions operating as separate entities.

According to a new supply chain report, this is the first time a Samsung foldable will rely entirely on a single external vendor for memory. The change specifically applies to models powered by the new Exynos 2500 chipset. Samsung’s own Device Solutions division will supply memory for other devices, like the Snapdragon-powered Galaxy Z Fold 7.

Heat Concerns Drive Major Supply Chain Shift

Samsung’s mobile division is prioritizing device stability. The company’s own LPDDR5X DRAM chips, when paired with the new Exynos processor, are believed to generate excess heat. This thermal issue could potentially affect the phone’s performance and battery life.

Micron’s LPDDR5X chips are reportedly more efficient. They offer better thermal management, which is crucial for the compact design of flip phones. This exclusive deal ensures the Galaxy Z Flip 7 runs cooler and more reliably.

Broader Implications for Samsung’s Business Model

This decision signals a notable change within Samsung’s corporate structure. It shows the mobile division is making independent choices to ensure product quality, even if it means bypassing the in-house semiconductor unit. This internal customer-supplier dynamic is becoming more competitive.

The move also solidifies Micron’s position as a key player in the high-end mobile market. Gaining a 100% share in a flagship Samsung model is a major coup for the American chipmaker. It reflects the intense competition in the semiconductor industry, where performance often trumps corporate allegiance.

This exclusive partnership with Micron for the Galaxy Z Flip 7 DRAM underscores a pivotal moment for Samsung. It highlights a focus on optimizing performance, even if it means looking beyond its own walls. The success of this strategy will be closely watched by the entire industry.

Info at your fingertips

Why is Samsung using Micron chips instead of its own?

Samsung is using Micron’s LPDDR5X DRAM due to heat concerns. The combination of the Exynos 2500 chip and Samsung’s own memory was believed to run too hot. Micron’s chips offer better thermal management for a stable device.

Does this apply to all Galaxy Z Flip 7 models?

This exclusive use of Micron DRAM is reported for models containing the Exynos 2500 chipset. The Snapdragon-powered Galaxy Z Fold 7 will reportedly use memory from Samsung’s own Device Solutions division.

Will this affect the phone’s performance?

The change is expected to improve performance and reliability. Better heat management from Micron’s chips should prevent thermal throttling. This allows the device to maintain consistent speed during extended use.

Is this a permanent change for Samsung?

It is unclear if this is a permanent shift. The decision appears to be model-specific and driven by current technical challenges. Future sourcing will likely depend on the performance of internal and external chip offerings.

Which companies are considered trusted sources for this news?

This report is based on information from supply chain analysts and industry insiders. Major news agencies like Reuters often corroborate such component shifts through their own industry sources.