ASUS Will Enter Flash Memory Market Soon

[Apoptosis]

With Flash memory expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 160-170% over the next 3-5 years it is no suprise that ASUS is entering the flash memory market. ASUS used to sell DRAM before the 2001 memory bubble burst, so maybe Asustek can do better than their first dab in memory.

Asustek Computer plans to begin producing small-size flash memory cards for both the OEM and own-brand market, according to market sources. Although the exact details and release schedule of the products have not been finalized, the sources hinted that the products will be designed for use with notebooks and mobile phones.

Asustek declined to comment on the report.

This would not be Asustek’s first foray into the memory market. In 2000, Asustek began selling DRAM-modules, only to abandon the market when the DRAM industry collapsed in 2001. According to sources at DRAM-module makers, Asustek may have more positive results this time around, as demand for small-size memory cards is expected to grow at a CAGR of 160-170% over the next three to five years, the sources added.

In related news, Asustek aims to ship four million notebooks this year, with half of its shipments being own-brand. The company also projects that the 15.4-inch notebook market will become the mainstream by the second quarter of next year, with a 31.8% share.

Source: Digitimes