Samsung Takes First Step Away From ARM’s Ecosystem By Working On An SSD Controller Chip Based On RISC-V Architecture

Samsung is developing an SSD controller chip based on the open-source RISC-V architecture for its upcoming BM9K1 SSD lineup.

The BM9K1 controllers are being designed entirely in-house, replacing previous controllers that used ARM instruction sets.

SSD controllers handle data transfers and maintenance tasks such as error correction, garbage collection, and wear leveling.

Western Digital has used RISC-V-based SweRV cores in SSD controllers for years, preceding Samsung's move.