Artificial-intelligence computing is siphoning off global supplies of memory chips, setting the stage for higher prices on consumer electronics. TrendForce estimates DRAM demand exceeds supply by about 10%, with average DRAM contract prices up roughly 50% quarter-over-quarter and poised to climb another 40% next quarter as buyers pay steep premiums to secure fast delivery. Micron, a top U.S. memory maker, signaled the imbalance will persist, citing ongoing AI build-outs and limited near-term capacity additions; its next major U.S. fab isn’t slated to come online until 2027. With manufacturers prioritizing high-margin AI memory, PCs, phones and TVs face tighter allocations and rising costs—a squeeze Dell says will reach end customers. Analysts see no quick fix, as data-center investment reshapes the memory market’s cycle and keeps supply running behind demand through 2026.
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