SK hynix is accelerating its push into the AI PC-era storage market with the launch of a next-generation NAND-based solid-state drive (SSD).
The company announced on April 8 that it has completed development of its first consumer SSD, the PQC21, powered by 321-layer quad-level cell (QLC) NAND flash, and has begun supplying the product to key customers. The new SSD is positioned as a strategic offering designed to meet rising demand for high-capacity and high-performance storage driven by the expansion of AI PCs.
The PQC21 combines QLC technology, which stores four bits per cell, with an ultra-high 321-layer stacking architecture to significantly increase storage density. This allows the drive to maximize data capacity within the same footprint, supporting high-capacity options such as 1TB and 2TB.
To address performance limitations typically associated with QLC NAND, SK hynix has incorporated SLC caching technology. This approach temporarily writes data to a high-speed area before reorganizing it, improving both read and write speeds.
SK hynix plans to expand shipments to global IT companies, starting with Dell Technologies this month. Through closer collaboration with major customers, the company aims to strengthen its presence in the AI PC storage segment and increase its share in the consumer SSD market based on QLC technology.
Market conditions are also favorable. According to IDC, the share of QLC NAND in the global market is expected to grow from 22% in 2025 to 61% by 2027, driven by increasing data storage demand and cost efficiency advantages.
Industry observers view the launch of the PQC21 as a key milestone for SK hynix in enhancing its NAND competitiveness and securing leadership in the AI PC storage market. The company said it will continue to expand its global memory leadership by leveraging high-performance, high-density NAND technologies.
