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AI Sparks Global RAM Shortage, TV Prices to Soar
18 Jan
Summary
- AI demand drives RAM prices to all-time highs, impacting electronics.
- TV-specific DRAM prices have surged by 50% over the past year.
- Manufacturers may reprice products due to semiconductor supply issues.
Electronics, including televisions, are poised for significant price increases in 2026 due to the escalating demand for AI technologies. The core issue stems from the increased need for DRAM and RAM, components crucial for powering AI data centers. This surge in demand has led to record-high RAM prices, a phenomenon dubbed "RAMageddon," which is expected to impact global supply chains.
Samsung, a major player in semiconductor production, has acknowledged the impending price hikes. The company's president, Wonjin Lee, indicated that while they aim to shield consumers, the rising costs of components will necessitate product repricing. Market rivals, such as LG, Hisense, and TCL, may face greater challenges in sourcing these increasingly expensive components, with TV-specific DRAM prices reportedly increasing by 50%.
Despite these pressures, the exact extent of the price hikes remains uncertain as manufacturers have yet to finalize their 2026 product lineups and pricing. Consumers concerned about potential cost increases can consider purchasing 2025 or 2024 models, which are likely to see significant discounts. Official pricing for new TVs typically emerges in March or April, offering a clearer picture later in the year.
