SK Hynix ships next-generation memory chips to major customers as it competes for share in the AI semiconductor market.

What happened: SK Hynix said it has shipped samples of its 12-layer HBM4E chip—a type of high-bandwidth memory used in AI processors—to major customers. The chip reaches speeds of up to 16 gigabits per second per pin and offers over 20% better power efficiency than previous models.

Why it matters: HBM chips are crucial components in AI chipsets such as those made by Nvidia, helping handle the vast data needed to train AI models. SK Hynix is Nvidia's main HBM supplier, and this move signals the company is working to strengthen its position as rivals Samsung and Micron compete in the fast-growing AI semiconductor market.

What to watch: The company has already begun shipping samples to major customers, indicating it is moving toward broader commercial availability of the next-generation chip.