Samsung Electronics will likely mass produce its next-generation CXL memory modules by year end. The chipmaker plans to supply samples of its CXL 3.1-based CMM-D products in the third quarter. Consequently mass production could begin as early as the fourth quarter of this year. This CXL memory allows multiple processors to share pooled memory resources efficiently. Unlike conventional server memory, it does not require major hardware redesigns.
The new CMM-D module combines DRAM chips with a dedicated CXL controller. It supports up to 1 terabyte of capacity on a single board. Bandwidth reaches 72 gigabytes per second based on PCIe 6.0 technology. Therefore this CXL memory delivers double the performance of the previous CXL 2.0 standard. Industry sources say Samsung aims to capture rising demand from AI data centers. These facilities need flexible memory solutions beyond traditional DRAM and HBM.
Samsung has already supplied CXL 2.0 samples to more than 40 companies. Those customers include major server operators and hyperscale firms. The company initially planned to launch the product last year. However booming demand for conventional DRAM and HBM pushed CXL down the priority list. Now Samsung renews its focus on bringing this CXL memory to market quickly. Customers will need to pass qualification tests before mass production begins.
A memory industry executive explained the core function of CXL memory clearly. The executive stated that memory pooling remains the primary role of CXL. He added that CXL complements HBM rather than replacing it entirely. Meanwhile rival SK hynix has also stepped up its CXL push. The company plans a second-generation CXL product supporting the CXL 3.0 standard. Market researcher Yole Group projects the global CXL market will grow substantially. It expects the market to expand from 2.1 billion dollars this year. Subsequently the market could reach 16 billion dollars by 2028. This growth reflects AI’s increasing demand for memory solutions. Samsung’s CXL memory will likely play a major role in that expansion accordingly.
