The memory and NAND shortage has already pushed up prices for laptops, phones, consumer RAM, and other upgrade-heavy devices. Samsung’s latest earnings report now suggests the pressure may soon extend to more electronics that rely on advanced chips and built-in storage.
The company says demand is already far ahead of supply, and the gap could get worse in 2027. Buyers planning to purchase a phone, laptop, gaming PC, console, TV, or smart device over the next year may feel the impact.
Why should buyers care about Samsung’s warning?
Samsung reported a record quarter as booming AI demand helped its chip division drive most of the profit surge. Data center companies are buying huge amounts of advanced memory, adding pressure to the wider tech supply chain.
The company said that supply is falling far short of customer demand. This can mean higher component costs, fewer discounts, and pricier upgrades for consumers. The risk is not limited to phones and laptops. Many modern electronics rely on some form of memory, which means smart TVs, cameras, routers, wearables, cars, and smart home devices, among others, could also come under pricing pressure.
The South Korean conglomerate is already feeling this from both sides. Higher chip prices helped its semiconductor business, while its mobile and display units took a hit. Mobile and network profit fell 35% in the first quarter, and display profit also declined.
Which gadgets could become more expensive?
The smartphone market is already showing early warning signs. Most brands are raising prices on new devices, while also cutting back on memory and storage options. According to IDC, sub-$100 Android phones may become permanently unviable because manufacturers in this segment work with thin margins. This sharp increase in memory and storage costs risks wiping out profitability in this segment.
The impact is visible elsewhere too. RAM prices are climbing for PC buyers, Micron has warned that the shortage may last longer, and Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan has suggested relief may not arrive until 2028. Microsoft has also warned that memory pressure could raise the cost of its next Xbox hardware, while TVs may face higher prices due to memory costs and panel shortages.
Samsung’s report reveals that the next round of price hikes may not be driven solely by larger cameras, faster screens, or new AI features, as the cost of memory in everyday devices could play a bigger role.