SoftBank subsidiary to work with Intel on next-gen memory for AI

A new collaboration between SoftBank subsidiary Saimemory and Intel Corp. Aims to accelerate the development and commercialization of next-generation memory technology. The partnership, announced Tuesday, focuses on innovations designed to meet the increasing demands of artificial intelligence and high-performance computing.

The Z-Angle Memory programme

The joint effort is currently known as the “Z-Angle Memory programme,” or ZAM. Saimemory, established in December 2024, will leverage existing memory technology and expertise from Intel, building upon work previously conducted as part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Memory Technology programme. This earlier work specifically focused on improving the performance and power efficiency of Dynamic random-access memory (DRAM).

Did You Know? Intel’s involvement in the ZAM programme builds on its prior work with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Memory Technology programme.

According to Intel Fellow and CTO of Intel Government Technologies, Dr. Joshua Fryman, “Standard memory architectures aren’t meeting AI needs.” Intel has reportedly developed a new memory architecture and assembly approach that promises to improve DRAM performance while simultaneously reducing power consumption and costs.

Market Reaction and Future Timelines

The announcement appears to have been well-received by investors. Shares of SoftBank rose 3.13%, while Intel stock increased by 5% in overnight trading on Robinhood following the news. Prototypes of the new memory technology are expected by the fiscal year ending March 31, 2028, with full commercialization targeted for fiscal 2029, according to a SoftBank press release.

Expert Insight: The collaboration highlights the critical importance of memory technology in the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. The focus on energy efficiency suggests a growing awareness of the substantial power demands associated with AI computing and a proactive effort to address these concerns.

The partnership arrives during a period of high demand for memory used in AI applications, a demand that has currently outstripped supply, leading to shortages throughout the memory supply chain. Fujitsu, a Japanese multinational IT equipment and services company, is also reportedly involved in the project, as initially reported by Nikkei Asia last year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Z-Angle Memory programme?

The Z-Angle Memory programme, or ZAM, is a collaborative effort between Saimemory and Intel to develop and commercialize next-generation memory technology for artificial intelligence and high-performance computing.

When are prototypes expected?

Prototypes of the new memory technology are expected by the fiscal year ending March 31, 2028.

What was the market reaction to the announcement?

Shares of SoftBank rose 3.13%, while Intel stock rose 5% in overnight trading on Robinhood following the announcement.

As demand for AI continues to grow, how might innovations in memory technology shape the future of computing?