SanDisk ships new X4 flash memory chips

SanDisk is shipping new memory chips that will allow consumers to store even more data on its flash storage cards. The technology, called "X4," manages to squeeze four bits of data per memory cell instead of the typical one or two bits per cell. The result is lower production cost and improved profit margins, noted the Silicon Valley company.

In development for more than five years, SanDisk says the technology will first be found in 8GB and 16GB SDHC cards, as well as 8GB and 16GB Memory Stick PRO Duo cards. However, it went on to say that there will be no identifying labels or changes in pricing, and SanDisk president and operating chief Sanjay Mehrotra called it "a seamless transition."

Separately, SanDisk shares traded lower early this week after a UBS analyst cut his rating on the company's stock.

For more on this story:
- check out this article at CNET News
- check out this article at the Wall Street Journal
- check out this article at Barrons.com

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