Random access memory, or RAM, is found in almost every piece of technology we utilize. But it’s also the technology that artificial intelligence companies like OpenAI, Anthropic, Google and Meta utilize to power servers in their massive data centers. Now the world’s largest memory makers Samsung, SK Hynix and Micron are taking advantage of the surge in demand by shifting resources away from consumer products and toward more lucrative deals with artificial intelligence companies.
The result is a severe shortage of RAM in consumer products, which is not only contributing to rising prices for RAM kits used by PC manufacturers, but also by manufacturers of a range of devices, including laptops, smartphones, game consoles and many others. Some companies, such as Raspberry Pi and Framework, have already increased the prices of their products as a result of the augment, while others, such as Dell, Asus, Acer, Xiaomi and Nothing, have warned of price increases soon.
The RAM shortage doesn’t look like it’s going away anytime soon, as International Data Corporation analysts predict it could “continue until 2027.” Here’s all the latest news on rising RAM prices.