Flash demand to grow like billy-o

A SURVEY by DRAM Exchange claims demand for NAND Flash memory will grow by more than 130 per cent this year.

The main reason for this is that hardware using the memory, such as handsets, MP3/PMP, digital cameras and USB Flash drives will demand more storage space than a Fijian rugby player who has eaten in Texas.

Apparently, leading toymaker Apple will be the biggest influence on price. The more of the stuff it buys for its gadgets the more it will push the price up.

As a result, supply will be tight in the third quarter because Apple is going to be ordering shedloads of the stuff for the Thanksgiving and Christmas demand of its gizmos.

Low-cost PCs that use Flash memory could also affect supply and push prices up.

It could mean that Asustek’s low-cost Eee PC might have to change its label to Asustek’s medium-cost Eee PC. µ