- Standard LPDDR6 finalized for the first mobile and IA deployments
- Memory provides better efficiency at faster speed and added safety features
- Office systems that should follow the deployments of mobile and integrated devices
The next generation of low power memory is on the way. LPDDR6, recently announced by the JEDEC Solid State Technology Association, should begin to appear in the products around 2026.
The group officially published the JESD209-6 specification, which describes the improvements intended for mobile devices, the workloads of AI and other environments sensitive to power.
While workstations and office PCs will eventually benefit from the new standard, early adoption is targeted elsewhere.
Targeting energy efficiency
LPDDR6 introduces a double sub-channel architecture, with each sub-channel using 12 data lines and four control / address lines. This configuration is designed to manage high -band width tasks while remaining effective in compact systems conceptions.
The static efficiency mode allows a more intelligent use of banking resources, and memory can move burst lengths between 32b and 64b on demand.
Energy efficiency is a clear priority of the new standard. LPDDR6 uses a tension lower than its predecessor and introduces a dynamic voltage frequency scale for low power, which reduces voltage during slower operation.
It also includes a dynamic mode of efficiency and refresh control methods intended to reduce energy consumption in real time.
The safety and reliability features have also been updated. These include activation monitoring by row, ECC on Die, memory auto-tests and a layoff for critical data. These capacities aim to take charge of the workloads and mobile environments of AI demanding where the integrity of the system is important.
“Jedec is proud to present LPDDR6, the culmination of years of dedicated effort from the members of the JC-42.6 sub-comity for low-power memories,” said Mian Quddus, Chairman of the Jedec Board of Directors. “By offering a balance between energy efficiency, robust safety options and high performance, LPDDR6 is an ideal choice for new generation mobile devices, AI and related applications to thrive in a world concerned with power and high performance.”
The new standard is supported by Micron, Qualcomm, Samsung, SK Hynix, Synopsys and others, which have all contributed in a way to its development and standardization.
Although the standard is ready, the material ecosystem will take the time to catch up. Mobile and integrated platforms should lead, while the use of wider computers will follow later.
“Beyond the mobile industry, Qualcomm Technologies plans LPDDR6 as an essential technology about to revolutionize IT, automotive, AI and other sectors, paving the way for transformative progress in the coming years,” said Durga Malladi, SVP and GM of Edge Solutions at Qualcomm.
