Intel pushes flash memory for cell phones

The program promises competitive pricing, continuous supply, software porting and technical design assistance.

Its first four participating ODMs are from Taiwan--Acer Communications & Multimedia Inc, Arima Communication Corporation, Compal Communications Inc and GVC Corporation. The role of cell phone ODMs has become increasingly important as major mobile phone manufacturers outsource the building of handsets.

According to the chipmaker, its StrataFlash memory incorporates multi-level cell technology to double memory capacity in the same space, but at a lower cost. “Internet cell phones are requiring significantly larger amounts of flash memory as voice and data applications converge in the wireless Internet economy,” noted Intel Asia Pacific regional manager (Communications & Wireless Silicon Sales Group) Tan Gark Khim.

Higher-density memory would allow cell phones to store audio music files and enable Web caching and Java applications without significantly raising manufacturing costs, according to the company.

Along with its StrataFlash, Intel’s Flash Data Integrator (FDI) software also offers ODM customers the flexibility of user-defined code and data sizes without the need for hardware redesigns.