In another reminder that nanotechnology is all around us, Samsung has begun mass producing an 8-Gigabit (Gb) NAND flash memory device, providing a much larger and more affordable storage density for consumer and mobile applications such as mobile phones, MP3 players and gaming consoles. The high-density MLC (multi-level-cell) memory is being produced with 60-nanometer (nm) process technology - the smallest used today.

The 8GB NAND which can store 2000 MP3 files or 225 minutes of DVD-quality video is expected to be available in the third quarter of 2006, said a Samsung press release.

The newest technology advancement brings 25 percent higher manufacturing productivity over the previous 70nm design technology. (photo Samsung)