We were warned about the RAM shortage at the tail end of 2025, but now it’s becoming a major problem throughout the tech industry. Tech companies are beginning to increase the prices of their devices, both new and old, from gaming consoles to laptops and smartphones. In some cases, it’s causing otherwise reasonably priced devices to skyrocket and become almost unappealing.
Companies such as Samsung and Motorola are raising prices across the board, while Meta just announced that Quest 3 prices are going up, too. However, is this stopping you from buying a new smartphone?
Ready your wallets
RAM prices are going up. The reason? Because companies are hogging up all the manufacturing capacity to help power AI centers, and RAM makers are unable to keep up with demand for everyone else. As a result, smartphone OEMs are passing the cost onto consumers, which we’re seeing all over the place.
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It was already a huge red flag when Sony raised the price of its PlayStation 5 models to prices that should be considered illegal. Then, Samsung increased the price of the Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26 Plus by $100 compared ot their predecessors (but not the S26 Ultra), despite a few changes besides the new chip. Motorola also raised the launch price of its new Moto G Stylus 2026, also by $100, despite using the same chipset and many of the same specs as its predecessor.
(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)
But it’s not just new devices, it’s old ones too. Samsung has already been spotted raising prices on devices launched over the last year, including the Galaxy Z Flip 7, Galaxy Z Fold 7, and various tablets. Motorola has also bumped up the prices of some of its cheapest phones since launch, which is notable, as devices like the Moto G series are known for their affordability.
Meta is also raising prices on the Quest 3 and Quest 3S, while Microsoft is asking consumers to pay more for its Surface PCs.
And unfortunately, the RAM shortage could continue for some time as RAM makers try to catch up with demand and supply companies building AI data centers. In fact, according to IDC, the smartphone market saw its first decline since 2023 after years of consecutive quarterly growth.
So, how are you coping with the rising prices? Comment below and let us know!
