Macronix to wind down ROM production used in Nintendo game cartridges

Macronix, a major ROM supplier for Nintendo game cards, is gradually scaling back ROM production as it shifts toward flash memory. Reports say other suppliers also make ROM for Nintendo, but the potential effect on cartridge availability and future releases remains uncertain.

• Macronix is gradually scaling back ROM production, and TechSpot reports the company will not develop new ROM products.· 2 sources
• Macronix is one of Nintendo's major cartridge-chip suppliers; TechSpot says Rohm group companies also produce ROM for Nintendo game cards.· 2 sources
• Analyst David Gibson expects the supplier change could encourage more digital releases and Game-Key Cards, which provide a download key rather than the game itself.· 2 sources
• Nintendo has said it has no plans to abandon physical games; the reports say the effect of Macronix's decision on Nintendo remains uncertain.· 2 sources