Lexar Muse Ultra-Slim Portable SSD: The World’s Thinnest
Described as the world’s thinnest, the “Lexar Muse Ultra-Slim Portable SSD” features an ultra-thin design, approximately 3.8mm at its thickest point and about 1mm at the edges. Developed with smartphone photography and mobile workflows in mind, it combines a precision-machined unibody metal casing with an ultra-thin PCB and high-density NAND structure to achieve both a slim profile and high-speed storage performance.
Magnetic Connectivity for Smartphones
A key feature of the Muse is Lexar’s proprietary PogoPin magnetic data connection. The included “SnapLink Magnetic Cable” connects to the SSD via spring-loaded terminals and magnets. Furthermore, a dedicated sleeve incorporates N52-grade neodymium magnets, allowing the SSD to be securely attached to the back of compatible MagSafe-equipped iPhones. This design aims to reduce the bulk and cable clutter often associated with connecting typical portable SSDs to smartphones, enabling a more compact setup during shooting.
High-Speed Performance and Broad Compatibility
The Muse SSD offers maximum read speeds of 1,050MB/s and maximum write speeds of 1,000MB/s. It is compatible with USB-C enabled devices including iPhones, iPads, and Macs. For supported iPhones, it allows direct external recording of Apple ProRes 4K video at up to 120fps. This device supports creators’ mobile workflows from high-quality smartphone video recording to data transfer, mobile editing, backup, and capacity expansion. It will be available in 512GB and 1TB capacities, with deployment expected from Q4 2026. Availability and specifications may vary by region.
AI Storage Core: Next-Generation Technology for Local AI
IFA 2026 also showcased the latest advancements in Lexar’s “AI Storage Core” initiative. As the use of generative AI and large language models expands from cloud to PCs and edge devices, the ability to store large AI models locally and read them at high speeds becomes crucial. Lexar aims to evolve storage from a mere “data repository” into a system component that supports AI processing performance.
AI-grade Gen5 SSD and Storage Stick
Lexar exhibited next-generation AI storage concepts, including the “AI-grade Gen5 SSD” and “AI-grade Gen5 Storage Stick.” These solutions are designed for a bandwidth of up to 11GB/s, targeting devices that store large AI models locally, require rapid model switching, or demand low-latency data access for small AI and edge devices.
Lexar Luma Bridge for Efficient AI Processing
A core technology supporting the AI Storage Core is the Gen5 controller SPU (Storage Processing Unit), developed by Longsys, and Lexar Luma Bridge. The SPU utilizes a 5nm process and a DRAM-less architecture. Lexar Luma Bridge further aims to address challenges in local AI processing, such as increasing MoE (Mixture-of-Experts) models, KV Cache expansion, and I/O latency, by leveraging intelligent workload scheduling, predictive prefetching, and optimized cache management. Lexar states that these technologies can enhance local AI processing efficiency while reducing the required DRAM capacity by approximately 40%.
Dashcam USB Flash Drive Series for EV Environments
Lexar introduced a new storage application at IFA 2026: the “Dashcam USB Flash Drive Series,” designed for EV and in-vehicle environments. Modern EVs increasingly require continuous storage of large amounts of video data, not only from dashcams but also from multiple in-vehicle cameras for features like Sentry Mode, which records surroundings while parked. Such environments demand higher durability for prolonged, continuous writing and stability against temperature fluctuations within the vehicle than typical USB flash drives.
High-Durability Design for Automotive Use
The “Dashcam USB Flash Drive Series” is engineered to meet the requirements of in-vehicle video recording, featuring:
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High-durability firmware
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Design compatibility with a wide range of EVs
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Compact, low-profile design to avoid obstruction within the vehicle
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Stable operation in harsh temperature environments
This series is positioned as a specialized storage solution for automotive applications, distinct from general USB flash drives, targeting users who regularly utilize dashcams and continuous vehicle recording functions.
Evolving Storage: Beyond Capacity and Speed
Lexar’s exhibits at IFA 2026 reflect a shift in storage applications. The “Muse Ultra-Slim Portable SSD” enhances high-quality smartphone photography. The “AI Storage Core” supports local AI processing performance from the storage level. And the “Dashcam USB Flash Drive Series” addresses continuous video recording in EVs. A common thread among these innovations is a focus not just on capacity and transfer speed, but on understanding “how data is generated and how it will be used.” Celebrating its 30th anniversary, Lexar continues to develop solutions for new digital environments such as mobile creation, AI, and EVs, building upon its established memory and storage technologies.
IFA 2026 Lexar Exhibition Overview
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Event Name: IFA 2026
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Dates: September 4 (Fri) – September 8 (Tue), 2026
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Venue: Messe Berlin (Berlin, Germany)
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Lexar Booth: Level 1 / Hall 20 / Stand 101
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Exhibition Area: Content Creation Area (near North Entrance)
Visitors could experience Lexar’s latest storage products and technologies at the venue.
About Lexar
Lexar is a storage brand offering memory cards, USB flash drives, portable storage, SSDs, and memory products. It provides storage solutions that support a wide range of digital lifestyles, including photography, video, gaming, mobile, business, and personal backup.
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Notes and Trademarks
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“World’s Thinnest” is based on Lexar’s official announcement at IFA 2026 on September 4, 2026, as “World’s Thinnest Portable SSD.”
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Actual performance may vary depending on the equipment used, memory configuration, OS, software, temperature, and other operating conditions.
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Product specifications and capacities are subject to change without notice.
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The content is based on information available as of the announcement date.
