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Computer RAM gets biggest upgrade in 25 years but it may be too little, too late — LPCAMM2 won't stop Apple, Intel and AMD from integrating memory directly on the CPU

Today’s computers use either SO-DIMM or Low-power DDR (LPDDR) RAM. LPDDR surpasses DDR5 in terms of speed and comes in a form factor that reduces power and footprint while enhancing performance. However, LPDDR memory isn't modular and must be soldered onto the motherboard, meaning replacing it for repairs or upgrades isn’t practical. 

CAMM is a new form factor for laptop RAM that has just been adopted by the JEDEC Solid State Technology Association and given the name CAMM2. This technology is thinner and faster than the SO-DIMM standard, promising a speed boost for future laptops. That’s not the only advantage to it though. 

LPCAMM2 harnesses the benefits of LPDDR5X components but in a modular form. This represents the first-ever access to a modular LPDDR-based memory solution, revolutionizing the field for designers and users. It will also be of particular benefit to data center operators, cutting down on energy consumption.

A future, not THE future

LPCAMM2 allows stacking up to 16 DRAM components within a single package, reducing memory architecture and saving space within laptops (the form factor takes up to 64% less space than a dual-SO-DIMM stack), paving the way for thinner, lighter laptop designs. 

Despite these advantages, LPCAMM2 requires a new type of socket, which increases cost. However, it serves as a single memory module designed to fill both memory channels (128 bits total), which will ultimately lead to cost savings down the line.

In theory, LPCAMM2 is an ideal memory solution but it will take a while to be fully adopted by laptop manufacturers. That's not the only obstacle it faces. Tech giants like Apple are hard-wiring memory into the processor, an approach which removes traditional bottlenecks and makes the RAM much more efficient. LPCAMM2’s arrival is great news, but it seems unlikely that it will halt or reverse this trend.

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