SanDisk reports surge in NAND demand for AI infrastructure
SanDisk stated that customers are underestimating memory capacity requirements for AI inference, extending the company’s long-term order pipeline through 2030.
SanDisk leadership reported that AI inference is fundamentally reshaping the NAND flash market. During the company’s latest earnings call, executives noted that clients have consistently underestimated the storage capacity necessary to support AI-driven infrastructure. As a result, the company has secured long-term purchase commitments extending through 2030, with roughly two-thirds of NAND bit shipments expected to be locked under these agreements by the 2028 fiscal year.
To address these requirements, SanDisk confirmed that its high-bandwidth flash (HBF) storage dies have moved into the manufacturing phase. Designed specifically for AI inference, the technology aims to provide read bandwidth comparable to HBM while maintaining the high capacity of NAND, supporting larger AI models and extended KV cache requirements. Initial product samples are scheduled for delivery next year.
Financially, SanDisk reported revenue of $11.03 billion, surpassing market expectations. However, the stock experienced a decline following the announcement, suggesting investors may be recalibrating their outlook despite the strong performance. The company also announced an 8-for-1 stock split, which is set to become effective on November 19.