Unprecedented 50% Surge in Memory Chip Prices in 2026: AI Demand Outpaces Supply
A critical shortage of memory chips is sending shockwaves through the technology industry. AI infrastructure demand has caused DRAM prices to surge by an unprecedented 50-55% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to late 2025, according to TrendForce analysts.
The crisis stems from major chipmakers—Micron, Samsung Electronics, and SK Hynix—prioritizing production of high-bandwidth memory (HBM) for AI data centers over standard RAM used in consumer devices. This strategic shift leaves computer and smartphone manufacturers scrambling for supplies, with industry experts warning of significant price increases for consumer electronics throughout 2026.
“We have seen a very sharp, significant surge in demand for memory, and it has far outpaced our ability to supply that memory,” Micron business chief Sumit Sadana told CNBC this week at CES 2026. The company revealed it can only meet two-thirds of medium-term memory requirements for some customers, despite operating at full capacity.
Major PC manufacturers including Dell, HP, Lenovo, and ASUS have already signaled price increases of 15-20% on their products. The IDC research firm warns that under pessimistic scenarios, global PC shipments could shrink by up to 9% in 2026, while smartphone prices may rise by similar margins. Memory factories coming online in Idaho and New York won’t provide relief until 2027 and beyond, leaving consumers facing a challenging year for technology purchases.
Source: CNBC