Micron Rumoured to be Eyeing Austin Texas for New Fab

Despite having sold its fab in Lehi, Utah to TI back in October last year, it looks like Micron is ready to build a new, most likely more advanced fab and rumours are now circulating that it might end up in Austin, Texas. Micron currently has two fabs in Virginia and one in Idaho, plus four in Singapore, four in Taiwan, one in the PRC and one in Japan. It should be noted that Micron used to have a fab outside of Dallas, so Texas isn’t entirely unfamiliar ground for Micron. Initially Micron is said to have been eyeing North Carolina for its new fab, but that apparently fell through recently.

Micron announced last year that it’s looking to invest some US$150 million in expanding and improving upon its current fabs, plus potentially building additional ones. In addition to Texas, California and Arizona are apparently still in the running, although it’s unclear when Micron will make a final decision. The fab will obviously be producing either DRAM or flash memory, but it’s not clear what markets Micron is looking to expand its production in, but DRAM seems more likely based on current market conditions. The company is said to be looking for a location that has not only the suitable staff required, but is also looking for the right cost and reliability when it comes to utilities, as well as regulatory friendliness.