Top Chinese memory chip maker YMTC sues Micron for patent infringement, bringing semiconductor battle to the US

The sanctioned Chinese chip maker alleges that Micron, ‘threatened by YMTC’s ascension’, infringed on eight of its patents, including for 232-layer NAND memory

The lawsuit opens a new front in the semiconductor battle that has seen escalating US export controls, as YMTC continues to make technological progress

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Published: 2:30pm, 13 Nov 2023Updated: 4:35pm, 13 Nov 2023

China’s leading flash memory maker Yangtze Memory Technologies Co (YMTC) has filed a lawsuit against US memory chip maker Micron Technology for patent infringement, accusing the American tech giant of “freeriding” to protect its market share.

The civil lawsuit against the largest US memory chip maker was filed on Thursday at the US District Court for Northern California. It alleges that Micron and its subsidiary Micron Consumer Products Group together infringed on eight of YMTC’s patents.

The products named in the suit include YMTC’s 96-, 128-, 176- and 232-layer NAND flash memory chips.

“Just as we are committed to the pursuit of progress and product innovation, we are steadfast in our commitment to protecting our IP,” a YMTC spokeswoman said by email when asked about the court filing. “We are confident that this matter will be resolved swiftly.”

The latest legal saga comes as YMTC has sought to overcome escalating US sanctions on the export of advanced semiconductor tools and services to China. Washington blacklisted the Chinese chip giant last December. In April, Beijing launched a cybersecurity review into Micron in a move widely seen as retaliation for Washington’s intensifying pressure.

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