Variable bit encoding per nand flash cell to improve device endurance and extend life of flash-based storage devices

Abstract

Systems, methods, and/or devices are used to implement variable bit encoding to improve device endurance and extend life of storage devices. In some embodiments, the method includes determining a current endurance metric for a plurality of non-volatile memory portions configured to store data encoded in a first encoding format and determining an estimated endurance metric for the plurality of non-volatile memory portions (e.g., corresponding to estimated endurance after reconfiguration of the one or more portions to store data encoded in a second encoding format), and in accordance with a determination that reconfiguration criteria are satisfied (e.g., the estimated endurance metric comprises an improvement over the current endurance metric), reconfiguring the one or more portions to store data encoded in the second encoding format.