Front and back of eMMC compontent

Discontinuation of eMMC:

A Guide for Developers and OEMs


What is eMMC?


Embedded Multimedia Card (eMMC) is a non-volatile flash memory mainly used in mobile devices and embedded systems. It has a single package design featuring a NAND flash memory integrated with a memory controller. Its simplified design makes it a viable storage solution for wide-ranging embedded systems, especially in the consumer electronics sector, such as medical, automotive, and IoT applications.


In addition to its compact size, eMMC is easy to integrate and cost effective. It sits between slower traditional storage and faster, more expensive technologies like UFS and NVMe. But even after being a popular storage solution for many years, many manufacturers have revised down their production plans by 50% and more, and Samsung has decided to discontinue eMMC production from next year, citing pricing pressure and focus on high-margin memory.

The decision will affect the B2B sector, where eMMC is a favored storage solution due to its cost-effectiveness and ease of integration for moderate performance needs

The eMMC Phase Out - What will be the Fallout?

The decision to phase out eMMC storage is forced by several factors. Memory manufacturers believe there has been an added price pressure in the last two years. Moreover, large memory manufacturers are keen on developing high-margin memory products. These products can provide greater profitability and reinvestment potential, catering to the price pressures associated with eMMC.


So, as manufacturers focus on exiting legacy technologies like DDR3 and eMMC, it is likely to induce supply chain problems and increased memory prices. However, many manufacturers like Intelligent Memory (IM), Foresee/Longsys, ESMT, and SkyHigh Memory are committed to providing eMMC solutions beyond 2030, so there are still several alternatives available.


It effectively means there is no hurry for businesses because eMMC will still be available for the next few years, but eventually, the transition will force businesses to think differently. So, they must consider:


  • How will their supply chain handle production schedules during eMMC shortages?
  • Does it force requalification for new memory components?
  • Can supply chains meet the pricing structures after increased eMMC prices?
  • How and when should businesses approach the shift to SSDs and UFS technologies?

While there are several eMMC alternatives, not all of them are suitable for industrial needs. Hence, one of the key fallouts of the eMMC discontinuation is that businesses must proactively plan for future production and explore alternative options.


Block diagram of eMMC architectureA block diagram of an eMMC architecture

Key Features of eMMC Storage


While eMMC storage provides cost-effective options for manufacturers, they have several intriguing features such as:


  • Small Form Factor - eMMC storage units have a compact form factor and are packaged as BGA chips. They are as small as a postage stamp, so they easily mount on circuit boards.
  • Integrated Nature - The package features both flash memory and controller in a single chip, providing an integrated solution with reduced footprint
  • Non-volatile Storage - The card can retain data even when power is off, making it suitable for operating systems, applications, and user data.
  • Standardized Interface - eMMC features a standardized interface, typically based on the SD card standard, allowing for easy integration with various storage devices, including NAND and MMC devices.
  • Low Power Consumption - Consumes 84% less power than SSD storage units.
  • High Speed Transmission - eMMC chips are suited for high data rate applications. They can support above 400 MB/s data transfers based on their specifications.


eMMC Generations


eMMC storage has evolved with several improvements in each of its upcoming generations. Here is a quick look at how these generations have evolved.



eMMC 4.x


The eMMC 4.x generation established the fundamental eMMC standard with an integrated NAND flash memory and a memory controller. Thus generation supported speed modes up to 52 MHz and a transfer rate of 52 MB/s. Other features included:


  • Boot mode for faster device startup
  • Reliable write to enhance data integrity during power loss
  • Basic security features

The eMMC 4.x generation featured eMMC 4.4, 4.41, and 4.5. The following table summarizes the unique features in each:

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eMMC 5.0


The eMMC 5.0 further boosted performance, but more importantly, it introduced new functionalities that allowed easier system integration. This generation introduced the HS400 interface, capable of delivering up to 400 MB/s read. More features included:


  • Command Queuing
  • Improved Security
  • Enhanced Power Management

eMMC 5.1


eMMC 5.1 is the most recent and widely adopted eMMC standard. It offers further refinements in speed and features. It optimized HS400 for better real-world performance and lower power. Newly introduced features include:


  • Production State Awareness
  • Enhanced data strobe for improved high-speed transfer reliability
  • Read up to 330 MB/s
  • Write up to 150+ MB/s

eMMC vs. UFS (Universal Flash Storage)


When compared with UFS, eMMC is a cheaper, slower storage using a half-duplex interface, suitable for budget devices and basic tasks. While UFS is a pricier option, is faster because of its full-duplex interface and lower latency. Hence, it is preferred for demanding applications in higher-end devices.


Illustration of eMMC vs UFS

In terms of applications, eMMC finds use in entry-level phones and some embedded systems, while UFS powers flagship smartphones and high-performance devices. The following table summarizes the key differences between eMMC and UFS.

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