Samsung and SK Hynix are preparing to take a major step in the artificial intelligence hardware race. Reports suggest that both companies plan to start mass production of their sixth-generation high-bandwidth memory chips, known as HBM4, in 2026. These advanced memory chips are designed mainly for powerful AI systems rather than consumer devices.
According to reports from South Korea, Samsung will begin production first, possibly as early as February 2026. SK Hynix is expected to follow later, with its manufacturing schedule likely starting around September 2026. This early move could give Samsung a strong advantage over other memory makers such as Micron, which is not expected to start HBM4 production next year.
HBM4 is built to handle heavy AI workloads. Compared to earlier versions, the new memory chip is expected to offer much higher bandwidth and better energy efficiency. Reports suggest that HBM4 could deliver nearly double the bandwidth of current chips while reducing power use by around 40 percent. This makes it ideal for advanced AI accelerators used in data centres.
Most of these HBM4 chips are expected to be supplied to Nvidia, one of the world’s leading AI chipmakers. The memory will reportedly be used in Nvidia’s upcoming Vera Rubin AI accelerator platform. Earlier reports also claimed that Samsung recently passed Nvidia’s strict quality tests, allowing it to officially supply these high-end memory chips.
There are also some technical differences between the two manufacturers. Samsung is said to be using a 10nm logic process for the base die, which acts as the control centre of the memory chip. SK Hynix, on the other hand, is reportedly working with TSMC and using a 12nm logic process for its design. Both approaches aim to improve performance and system integration.
In terms of production scale, Samsung appears to be ahead. Reports suggest Samsung produces around 6,50,000 DRAM units per month, compared to SK Hynix’s 5,50,000 units. A similar gap is seen in HBM output, with Samsung producing slightly more units each month.
With AI demand growing rapidly, Samsung’s early start in HBM4 production could help it strengthen its position as a global leader in advanced memory technology.
