Sony Halts Memory Card Sales in Japan Amid Global Shortage

Summary

Sony has temporarily suspended the acceptance of orders for its entire mainstream memory card range in Japan, citing global semiconductor shortages and supply chain pressures. This decision comes as memory card prices have surged worldwide, partly driven by the significant demand for high-speed storage from AI data centers. The shortage of DRAM and NAND flash memory, essential for SD and CFexpress cards, is impacting manufacturers like Sony. While currently limited to Japan, this suspension could signal future supply restrictions in other markets and affect other memory card producers.

Key points

• Sony suspends all mainstream memory card deliveries in Japan.
• Global semiconductor shortages and AI demand are cited as primary causes.
• Memory card prices have significantly increased worldwide.
• The suspension may indicate a worsening global memory crisis.