eMMC (embedded multimedia card) provides a boost in read and write performance compared to traditional NAND flash memories, let alone micro SD cards. Samsung has now announced the manufacturing of the first 32, 64, and 128GB embedded memory solution based on Universal Flash Storage (UFS) 2.0 standard delivering up to 350MB/s read speed and 150MB/s write speed, or 40% improvement in read speed over eMMC 5.1.
This should help further reduce boot time, and app loading times. Moreover, while eMMC read and write operating are sequential (half-duplex), UFS 2.0 allows for full-duplex operating, meaning writing and reading can happen at the same time.
UFS can achieve this feat thanks to a LVDS (Low-Voltage Differential Signaling) serial interface with dedicated read/write paths contrary to the parallel 8-bit interface used for eMMC. Combined with a Command Queue(CQ), which sorts out the commands that needs to be carried out, UFS 2.0 allows three times faster file copy, and three times the multitasking capability compared to existing solutions. Command Queue is also an improvement found in eMMC 5.1 specifications.
If you are a JEDEC member, you can download UFS 2.0 specification (JESD220B) via JEDEC Universal Flash Storage page.
Via Liliputing
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
Support CNX Software! Donate via cryptocurrencies, become a Patron on Patreon, or purchase goods on Amazon or Aliexpress
The crucial question in my mind is whether UFS/UFS2 have the perks eMMC5.1 brings- namely command queueing.
Update: ok, a quick google shows this presentation from Marvell at the Flash Memory Summit, August 2014, which makes the case that UFS being much much better than eMMC, 5.1 included. Great table on page 5; highly recommended!
http://www.flashmemorysummit.com/English/Collaterals/Proceedings/2014/20140806_201D_Chen.pdf
It should be noted that UFS is also something that MIPI’s UniPro standard (featured in Google’s upcoming Project Ara phone/stuff) can transport.
This is part of Galaxy S6, just announced in Samsung Unpack event.