SK hynix unveils 'iHBM' thermal solution to boost AI performance

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May 25, 2026, 19:39 ET

Enhances heat dissipation by integrating ICEs into the HBM package
Reduces thermal resistance by 30%, ensuring stable chip operation in demanding high-temperature and high-pressure environments
Lowers barriers to adoption by leveraging market-proven MR–MUF technology, featuring high design compatibility

SEOUL, South Korea, May 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- SK hynix Inc. (or "the company", www.skhynix.com) announced today the launch of the iHBM solution that embeds integrated cooling elements(ICEs)^[1] within the high-bandwidth memory(HBM) package for next-generation HBM products.

^[1]ICE(Integrated Cooling Elements): A cooling element made of electrically non-conductive, thermally conductive silicon-based material, designed to dissipate heat from the HBM package by providing an additional thermal path.

Heat management has become a critical challenge as HBM technology advances with higher stacking and faster speeds to cater to the surging demand for AI data processing.

The efficient management of power density^[2] in the Die-to-Die Physical Layer (D2D PHY)^[3] —the interface connecting HBM and GPU—has emerged as a key factor defining the competitiveness of next-generation HBM.

^[2]Power Density: the amount of heat emitting per space serving as a key defining factor for the cooling efficiency and product lifespan.

^[3]D2D PHY(Die-to-Die Physical Layer): a hardware interface that enables fast data transfer between the HBM base die and AI accelerator.

With the iHBM solution, the company has taken a structural approach to addressing the heat management issue. Existing HBM products rely on an indirect cooling method that draws heat away through the core die. In contrast, the iHBM solution places ICEs directly in the D2D PHY area where heat concentration is the highest, creating an additional 'heat dissipation path'. This latest heat management solution helps reduce thermal resistance by 30% and enables chips to operate stably even in high-temperature and high-pressure conditions.

The company's mass-production capabilities also serve as a key advantage. SK hynix's Wafer Level Packaging(WLP)^[4] process, based on its market-proven Mass Reflow Molded Underfill(MR-MUF)^[5] technology, enables stable high-volume production of iHBM-equipped chips. Furthermore, the solution offers high design compatibility with existing System-in-Package(SiP)^[6] architectures, allowing customers to adopt the new thermal technology with minimal design adjustments.

^[4] WLP(Wafer Level Packaging): The technology enables the packaging process and testing all at once without cutting a wafer into separate chips. It helps minimize the size of chips and improve electrical efficiency.

^[5]MR-MUF(Mass Reflow Molded Underfill): A process used for stacking semiconductors by injecting liquid protective materials between chips to protect circuits.

^[6] SiP(System in Package): A packaging technology that allows different chips to operate cohesively as a one system by placing them next to each other in a vertical or horizontal alignment.

Through the iHBM solution, slated for deployment in next-generation HBM products including HBM5, SK hynix aims to increase the stability and operational efficiency of HPCs, AI data centers by meeting heat management standards required in high-density and high-bandwidth environments.

"iHBM is an optimal solution for thermal management, combining our memory design capabilities with advanced packaging technology," said Kangwook Lee, Senior Vice President and Head of PKG Development at SK hynix, adding "The company will cement its AI memory leadership by taking preemptive steps to offer values needed in the AI environment for its customers."

About SK hynix Inc.
SK hynix Inc., headquartered in Korea, is the world's top-tier semiconductor supplier offering Dynamic Random Access Memory chips ("DRAM") and flash memory chips ("NAND flash") for a wide range of distinguished customers globally. The Company's shares are traded on the Korea Exchange, and the Global Depository shares are listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. Further information about SK hynix is available at www.skhynix.com, news.skhynix.com.

SOURCE SK hynix Inc.