Why Everything from Your Phone to Your PC May Get Priced Higher in 2026
The prices of many devices we rely on daily—from smartphones to PCs—are projected to rise significantly in 2026. This increase is largely due to the soaring costs of RAM, a key component in technology that has more than doubled since October 2025. Here’s why.
The Impact of Rising RAM Prices
– Critical Component: RAM, or random access memory, is essential for running devices smoothly. It stores data that your device uses actively, enabling you to interact with it effectively.
– Cost Increase: The price of RAM has surged by over 500% in some cases, according to Steve Mason, general manager of CyberPowerPC. Such staggering price hikes are hard for manufacturers to absorb fully, leading to inevitable consumer cost increases.
– Broader Implication: As Mason stated, if a device uses memory or storage, consumers should expect to pay more. The common sentiment in the industry is that these price hikes are likely to persist well into 2026.
The Link Between AI Demand and RAM Prices
– AI’s Influence: Chris Miller, author of Chip War, identifies AI as the primary driver of increased demand for computer memory. High Bandwidth Memory is particularly sought-after for AI applications, resulting in widespread price increases across various memory types.
– Supply Challenges: Mike Howard from Tech Insights explains that cloud service providers are solidifying their memory requirements for upcoming years. This clarity in demand, coupled with supply constraints, has led suppliers to raise prices—some even pausing quotes, indicating a confident expectation of further price hikes.
– Cost Breakdown: Traditionally, memory costs make up about 15% to 20% of a PC’s total cost, but recent trends have pushed this figure to between 30% and 40%. Such increases strain manufacturers’ margins, especially in consumer sectors.
What Should Consumers Expect in 2026?
With the ongoing upward trend in prices, consumers will face critical decisions regarding their technology purchases:
– Higher Costs: A typical laptop with 16GB of RAM may see a manufacturing cost rise of $40 to $50 (£30 to £37), while smartphones might increase by around $30 per unit.
– Market Dynamics: Some major manufacturers, like Micron, are shifting focus away from the consumer market to cater to AI demands, reducing available options for buyers.
– Consumer Choices: As Danny Williams from PCSpecialist notes, consumers may have to choose between paying a premium for the performance they need or settling for less capable devices. Some may even opt to extend the lifespan of their current technology.
Conclusion: Preparing for a Costlier Future
In summary, the escalating prices of RAM will likely translate into higher costs for a plethora of tech devices by 2026. This trend necessitates that consumers weigh their options carefully, whether it means adjusting their budgets for a superior product or enduring the limitations of older technology. The trajectory suggests ongoing challenges in pricing and supply, shaping the landscape for technology acquisition in this upcoming period.