Panasonic, Samsung , SanDisk, Sony and Toshiba have reached an agreement in principle to collaborate on a new content protection technology for flash memory cards such as SD Cards and various storage devices.

'Next Generation Secure Memory Initiative' (a tentative name) is a collaboration of Panasonic, Samsung, SanDisk, Sony and Toshiba to license and promote HD (high-definition)-capable security for SD Cards and embedded memory for use in advanced consumer applications such as tablets and smartphones.

The companies said that the content protection solution would be robust enough to protect HD content. A high level of content security will be realized through the use of the initiative's technologies, including unique ID (identification) technology for flash memory and robust copy protection based on public key infrastructure.

The five companies believe this technology will enable various HD content applications such as HD network download, broadcast content to go and HD Digital Copy/Managed Copy from Blu-ray Disc media. With these applications, users will be allowed to enjoy HD content on Android-based smartphones and tablets, TVs and Blu-ray products.

The companies hope to be able to start licensing the new secure memory technology early next year. The companies expect to see adoption of flash memory products and various embedded flash memory solutions using this technology in the market in 2012.

"With our new secure memory solution, we are excited to create a strong link between the living room experience and the mobile experience. Now consumers can enjoy watching premier content, such as movies, on the go with their smartphones and tablets," said Yoshiyuki Miyabe, corporate CTO of Panasonic, in a statement.