Why is Samsung discontinuing MLC NAND Flash products?

Samsung is discontinuing MLC NAND Flash products to focus on advanced TLC and QLC technologies that better meet current market demands for higher capacity and cost-efficiency.

What is replacing MLC NAND Flash in storage?

TLC (Triple-Level Cell) and QLC (Quad-Level Cell) NAND Flash are increasingly replacing MLC to handle growing consumer and enterprise storage needs.

When will MLC NAND Flash shipments end?

Samsung's final shipments of MLC NAND Flash products are scheduled for mid-2026, marking a significant transition in the storage market.

Home / Technology / MLC NAND Flash Fades: TLC, QLC Ascend

MLC NAND Flash Fades: TLC, QLC Ascend

13 Jan

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Summary

MLC NAND Flash is exiting mainstream markets for niche applications.
Samsung discontinued MLC products, with final shipments by mid-2026.
TLC and QLC NAND Flash are increasingly meeting consumer and enterprise storage demands.

MLC NAND Flash is experiencing a significant market contraction, transitioning from mainstream storage to specialized, niche applications. Demand is now concentrated in areas like industrial control systems, automotive electronics, and medical equipment, where endurance and reliable supply are prioritized over cost-efficiency. Major NAND manufacturers, such as Samsung, are strategically exiting the MLC market, with final shipments slated for mid-2026. This deliberate capital reallocation towards TLC and QLC technologies is expected to reduce global MLC NAND capacity by 41.7% year-over-year in 2026.

As international suppliers withdraw from MLC production, companies focusing on embedded and high-reliability memory are gaining relative influence. Macronix, for instance, has shifted some capacity toward MLC NAND to serve customers facing supply gaps. This reduction in MLC output, coupled with limited replacement capacity, has already triggered early volume commitments and price increases. Buyers have accelerated procurement to secure long-term availability, driving sharp price hikes that are expected to persist in the short term.