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Have you ever wondered how a simple memory chip could disrupt entire industries? In 2026, the smartphone and PC markets will face an unprecedented situation where every byte counts. Let’s dive together into the uncertain future of these technologies that shape our digital lives.
The 3 key pieces of information not to miss
For the past two years, the demand for artificial intelligence has exploded, leading to a reallocation of production capacities towards more profitable components like HBM and DDR5. This is at the expense of DRAM and NAND chips, essential for smartphones and PCs.
With industrial capacities being limited, this reorientation has caused a lasting memory shortage for consumer electronics. As a result, a price increase is inevitable.
The PC market is already under pressure. With the end of the Windows 10 cycle and the aftermath of the post-pandemic crisis, PC prices are expected to increase by 15 to 20% by mid-2026. IDC forecasts a market decline of up to 9%, making PCs more expensive.
Major manufacturers, able to secure their component supplies, could come out on top. However, small assemblers and the custom PC market are likely to suffer.
The memory shortage also affects smartphones, hindering the upgrade to higher-end models at affordable prices. Manufacturers must choose between raising prices or reducing features, or both.
IDC anticipates a contraction of the smartphone market of up to 5.2% in 2026. Price increases will be particularly noticeable in the entry and mid-range segments.
According to IDC, the situation could persist well beyond 2026. As long as the demand from data centers and cloud providers remains high, the pressure on memory for smartphones and PCs will continue. No signs of slowing down are currently visible.
Apple and Samsung, two giants of the tech industry, have always been able to navigate through crises thanks to their powerful supply chain and ability to adapt to market fluctuations. Historically, these companies have dominated the market through continuous innovations and strong brand recognition, allowing them to maintain their position even during shortages.
Data centers, essential for the operation of cloud services and artificial intelligence, have seen their importance grow exponentially in recent years. They require massive amounts of memory, which puts additional pressure on the resources available for the general public.