This advanced, compact media storage solution is anticipated to hit the market by the end of 2024, alongside the introduction of new 1TB UHS-I microSD cards with substantial storage capacity.

Background of SD Express and microSD Express Standards

The foundational specifications for the SD Express and microSD Express standards were established by the SD Association in 2018, with the latest revisions made in November 2023. Despite ongoing efforts, reducing media storage to accommodate both SSD-like performance and high capacity remains a significant challenge in the technology industry.

Lexar’s Earlier Announcement and Samsung’s New Development

Nearly three years prior, Lexar hinted at the development of SD Express and microSD Express cards, expected to be released the subsequent year. However, such advancements have not materialized until now. Samsung is now on the forefront, announcing a 256GB SD Express microSD card set for release by the year’s end, aiming to set a new benchmark in the field.

Features of Samsung’s 256GB SD Express MicroSD Card

Samsung’s forthcoming 256GB SD Express microSD card, developed in collaboration with an unnamed partner for an undisclosed product, aims to revolutionize mobile computing and on-device artificial intelligence. Boasting sequential read speeds up to 800MB/s, the card is set to surpass the existing standards by fourfold and outpace SATA SSDs by approximately 1.4 times. Despite its compact size, suitable for action cameras and drones, it faces compatibility challenges, as no current cameras support the new SD Express standard. Additionally, the card is designed to consume low power and includes Dynamic Thermal Guard (DTG) technology to prevent overheating during prolonged high-performance use.

Introduction of Samsung’s 1TB UHS-I MicroSD Cards

Samsung has also begun mass production of 1TB UHS-I microSD cards, leveraging eight layers of their eighth-generation 1-terabit VNAND technology. These cards incorporate several safety features, offering protection against water, extreme temperatures, wear and tear, magnetic fields, X-rays, and drops, ensuring reliability and durability.

Pricing and Availability

As of now, Samsung has not disclosed the pricing details for these new microSD cards. The 256GB SD Express microSD card is expected to be available for purchase later this year, while the 1TB UHS-I microSD cards are slated for release in the third quarter of 2024.

News source: https://news.samsung.com/global/samsungs-new-microsd-cards-bring-high-performance-and-capacity-for-the-new-era-in-mobile-computing-and-on-device-ai