Micron launches validity challenges against Chinese leading chipmaker YMTC's 3D NAND patents ​

Micron Technology Inc. has initiated challenges to the validity of two patents held by Yangtze Memory Technologies Corp (YMTC) before the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) earlier this month, as reported on April 14.

These patents, numbered 10,950,623 and 11,501,822, are part of the eight 3D NAND patents YMTC used to sue Micron last November.

The ongoing legal dispute indicates that no settlement has been reached between the two parties.

In November 2023, YMTC filed a lawsuit against Micron and its unit, Micron Consumer Products Group, at the US District Court for the Northern District of California. This marked a rare instance of a Chinese chipmaker challenging an American counterpart in a US Court.

YMTC's complaint alleged that Micron's 3D NAND products infringed upon eight of its patents concerning the design, manufacture, and operation of 3D NAND technology. Among these patents were 10,950,623, 11,501,822, 10,658,378, 10,937,806, 10,861,872, 11,468,957, 11,468,957, 11,600,342, and 10,868,031.

YMTC positioned itself as a leading innovator and manufacturer of 3D NAND flash memory chips, having received recognition for its innovative technologies at industry events such as the Flash Memory Summit. The company also emphasized its transition from a startup to a significant player in the global 3D NAND market.

YMTC claimed that the lawsuit was intended to stop Micron's unauthorized use of its patented innovations, which Micron allegedly employed to thwart competition and secure market share.

YMTC sought an injunction against Micron and requested damages along with related legal fees.