Macronix phases out ROM chip production used in Nintendo Switch cartridges

Taiwanese memory manufacturer Macronix is phasing out its read-only memory chip production. Ars Technica, Engadget, and Tom's Hardware reported that the company is exiting the business, leaving Nintendo without its primary supplier for physical Switch cartridges. Macronix chief executive officer Miin Wu confirmed the decision, according to Engadget. [1][2][3]

The exit comes despite Macronix reporting a record high net profit of 337 million dollars for the third quarter of 2026. Engadget and Tom's Hardware reported that Wu cited increased demand from new customers for flash memory used in artificial intelligence data centers. The company is reallocating its manufacturing capacity toward NOR and NAND flash chips to meet that demand. [2][3]

Nintendo is a Japanese multinational video game company headquartered in Kyoto. Ars Technica reported that Nintendo stated last month that it has no plans to abandon physical game cartridges in the near future. However, Ars Technica noted that Nintendo may need to rely on alternative memory suppliers such as Rohm and Lapis Semiconductor for remaining ROM chip needs. [1][7]

Industry analysts note that shifting suppliers could increase manufacturing costs for physical media. Ars Technica reported that higher production expenses may lead to higher retail prices for physical cartridges, following a trend earlier this year where Nintendo began charging higher prices for select physical titles compared to their digital counterparts. [1]