SanDisk, Samsung flash fight heats up - flash memory patent infringement battle - Company Business and Marketing

Washington--An ongoing patent infringement battle between flash memory contenders, SanDisk and Samsung, has taken a turn in SanDisk's favor, with the threat of Samsung's ejection from the U.S. flash market. Yet, Samsung last week vowed to not give up the fight.

The litigation is one of many in the young flash memory market, pointing to an eventual shakeout as new players emerge on the scene and technology pioneers step forward to protect their territory--much like what is occurring in the 3-D graphics world. Observers recalled similar cases concerning DRAM technology before most everyone was forced to pay royalties to Texas Instruments.