Samsung’s New UFS Memory Cards are Five Times Faster Than MicroSD

Samsung’s New UFS Memory Cards are Five Times Faster Than MicroSD

As resolutions skyrocket and file sizes follow suit, there is a growing need for fast storage. In computing, hard drives are gradually being replaced by flash drives. Memory cards have also gained speed, but microSD cards are now struggling to keep up with the pace of change. After all, displaying and capturing 4K video will be routine for the next generation of smartphones.

In response, Samsung has come with a brand new format. It goes by the name of Universal Flash Storage, or UFS, and these cards are effectively tiny flash drives. Initially available in capacities up to 256GB, the cards will offer transfer speeds that are five times faster than current microSD standards. The only problem? No devices are currently compatible.

Samsung's New UFS Memory Cards are Five Times Faster Than MicroSD

It seems like an extraordinary gamble on Samsung’s part, but there are good reasons for the launch. For starters, the new cards are streets ahead of any current technology. Even the fastest UHS-II SD cards, recommended for professional use, can only muster read speeds of 280 megabytes per second. In contrast, the UFS format can retrieve data at 530 megabytes per second. In other words, you can load a full HD movie in 10 seconds.

[tweet_box]The UFS format can retrieve data at 530 megabytes per second[/tweet_box]

The other major factor here is Samsung’s standing within the industry. Along with Toshiba and SanDisk, the South Korean company manufactures much of the memory used by other brands. This affords Samsung great leverage when attempting to bring rivals on board with the new format. In the days since the cards were announced, it has been revealed that a new memory card slot that can take UFS and microSD cards is also in the works.

Samsung's New UFS Memory Cards are Five Times Faster Than MicroSD

It must be noted that UFS technology is not strictly new — the Samsung S6 and S6 Edge smartphones both have it embedded. The new cards are the first removable media to utilize UFS memory, however.

Looking to the future, these cards will most likely be supported first by upcoming Samsung phones. In time, the phenomenal speeds will surely be put to good use in 360-degree video rigs and other demanding devices.

Will the faster transfers make a difference to you? We would love to hear in the comments!

Mark is best known for writing about apps, but he also loves the tactile, hardware side of technology. Being a professional photographer, he's pretty handy with a camera, and he's a self-confessed tweetaholic.
Join the Discussion

You Might Also Like

What is OSS in telecom? Information, benefits & product examples

What is OSS in telecom? Information, benefits & product examples

What is OSS in telecom? OSS stands for Operational Support Systems. These software systems enable efficient and effective management of telecommunications services and network management. Telecommunications operators use such solutions. Today, many options make it easier to manage and connect..
HeatsBox Go review: this heated lunch box warms your meals in 15–25 minutes

HeatsBox Go review: this heated lunch box warms your meals in 15–25 minutes

If I’m on the go all day, I hit up McDonald’s or Panera for lunch. Lately, however, I’ve been trying to cook more of my food at home. The trouble is, bringing casseroles and other cooked dishes with me has..
MWC Barcelona 2024: flying taxis, bendable phones & so much more

MWC Barcelona 2024: flying taxis, bendable phones & so much more

As chief business development officer (CBDO) of Gadget Flow, I love witnessing new tech releases to the consumer market. At MWC 2024, I got the chance to experience firsthand some of the latest ideas and innovations that will impact our..
These 6 technologies give your business 5-star customer service ratings

These 6 technologies give your business 5-star customer service ratings

Years ago, all it took to run a successful business was an innovative product that customers wanted. After that, everything else was secondary. You could succeed with relatively high prices. You could even get by with subpar customer service technologies...
A guide to roaming: how to stay connected without overpaying

A guide to roaming: how to stay connected without overpaying

Staying connected to your friends and loved ones you travel is important. Doing so will improve communication, navigation, and safety. It also helps you get important information and share experiences in real time. And that’s why we’re presenting you with..
The Crowdfunding Formula review: amplifying innovation through strategic collaboration with Gadget Flow

The Crowdfunding Formula review: amplifying innovation through strategic collaboration with Gadget Flow

Crowdfunding has revolutionized how innovators bring their products to market. The Crowdfunding Formula (TCF) is an ally in this financial renaissance. At Gadget Flow, a platform with a keen eye for groundbreaking technology, we’ve observed firsthand the significant impact of..