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DRAM Prices Double in 2026 as AI Demand Squeezes PC Makers
DRAM memory prices have roughly doubled since the end of last year as AI demand squeezes PC supplies.
Key points
- DRAM prices have risen to roughly double their level at the end of last year.
- Manufacturers are prioritizing chip supplies for AI applications in data centers over commodity products such as PCs.
- Personal computer shipments in Japan fell 30% on the year in the April-September period with memory supplies stretched.
Why it matters. The shift of memory chip supply toward AI data centers is squeezing personal computer makers, as memory supplies remain stretched and PC shipments fall.
In Tokyo, DRAM semiconductor memory prices have risen to roughly double their level at the end of last year, according to a report dated November 3, 2026. Manufacturers of the mainstay chips are prioritizing supplies for artificial intelligence applications in data centers over commodity products such as personal computers. Personal computer shipments in Japan fell 30% on the year in the April-September period as memory supplies stayed stretched.
Latest updates
DRAM Prices Double in 2026 as AI Demand Squeezes PC Makers
DRAM semiconductor memory prices have roughly doubled compared with the end of last year, according to Nikkei Asia. Memory manufacturers are prioritising supply for US hyperscalers, which run large AI data centres, over general-use products. The squeeze has hit personal computer makers hard. PC shipments in Japan fell 30% on the year in the April-to-September period, as memory supplies remained stretched. The report was filed from Tokyo on November 3, 2026. The shortage points to tighter supply for consumer electronics makers while AI demand stays strong.