Samsung, SK Hynix, Micron Raise Memory Prices Up to 50% as AI Drains Supply
Updated
Updated · Computerworld · Jun 29
Samsung, SK Hynix, Micron Raise Memory Prices Up to 50% as AI Drains Supply
3 articles · Updated · Computerworld · Jun 29
Summary
Jefferies expects memory prices to jump as much as 50% in Q3 and another 30% to 40% by end-2026, extending shortages that are already hitting Apple and other device makers.
AI servers are driving the squeeze: Ming-Chi Kuo says up to 20% of memory capacity still serving consumer electronics could be redirected to data centers next year, with the imbalance lasting through 2027.
Samsung, SK Hynix and Micron control about 90% of global memory supply, and their shift toward higher-margin AI demand has triggered a California class action alleging market power abuse.
Smaller hardware vendors face the sharpest risk—GoPro has warned about its viability—while Apple may seek embargoed Chinese supply or back new fabs, though any new capacity would take years to arrive.
Can Apple's gamble on a sanctioned Chinese chipmaker solve the global RAM crisis hitting your devices?
Is the AI memory boom a real crisis or a cover for chipmakers to orchestrate record-breaking price hikes?
As AI devours the world's memory chips, are affordable smartphones and PCs becoming a thing of the past?
Memory Chip Super-Cycle 2026: Unprecedented DRAM Price Hikes, AI Boom, and the Future of Consumer Electronics
Overview
In the first half of 2026, memory chip prices surged to unprecedented levels, with DRAM prices hitting all-time highs and contract prices rising sharply quarter over quarter. This spike was driven by limited NAND flash output and a major shift in manufacturing priorities, as leading suppliers redirected capacity from consumer DRAM to high-bandwidth memory for AI applications. As a result, consumer electronics makers faced higher costs and reduced storage options, while memory suppliers saw record demand and profits. The crisis is reshaping the tech industry, forcing companies and consumers to adapt to higher prices and tighter supply.