Chinese memory chip manufacturer CXMT has confirmed the completion of engineering sample validation for its sixth-generation DRAM technology platform, which is based on the 4F² vertical-channel architecture. The announcement was made in a statement to the Global Times on Saturday.
This validation indicates that the platform has met its core performance targets on actual wafers, allowing CXMT to proceed toward mass production following customer qualification. Completing engineering sample validation is a critical milestone in the commercialization process, signaling that the platform is technically prepared for further product qualification and potential scaling.
While CXMT previously discussed advancements in its 4F² architecture at academic forums, this marks the first time the company has publicly recognized the design as the basis for its sixth-generation platform.
The company plans to unveil new DDR5 RDIMM products utilizing the 4F² architecture by the end of 2026, aimed specifically at the server market, which is known for its demanding requirements.
The 4F² cell architecture is considered essential for overcoming the scaling challenges of traditional DRAM and moving toward 3D DRAM technology. It operates by allocating each memory cell an area of 4F², with F representing the minimum line width of a semiconductor. In contrast, current mainstream DRAM utilizes a 6F² cell structure.
On the global stage, South Korean companies Samsung Electronics and SK hynix are also pursuing 4F² technology. SK hynix laid out its 4F² roadmap in 2025, and Samsung aims to mass-produce sub-10-nanometer DRAM based on this architecture by 2028, as reported by Seoul Economic Daily on October 13.
CXMT has claimed the distinction of being the first company to complete engineering sample validation of the 4F² architecture. Should development continue successfully, CXMT could lead the market as the first to manufacture products based on this technology.
The company’s advancements have accelerated in recent months, with both its LPDDR6 products and fifth-generation DRAM platform, known as G5, currently in mass production. This trend suggests a more rapid commercialization cycle, according to CXMT.
CXMT’s commitment to research and development is evident in its increased spending, which reached 11.07 billion yuan (approximately $1.66 billion) in the first nine months of 2026, marking a year-on-year increase of 73.03 percent. The company has been researching the 4F² architecture since its inception, amassing over 300 related patent families.
In its financial report released on Friday, CXMT reported revenues of 269.02 billion yuan for the first nine months of 2026, a staggering increase of 738.51 percent compared to the same period last year. The company also noted a net profit attributable to shareholders of 132.04 billion yuan, recovering from a loss reported in the previous year.
