Due to the significant increase in demand for artificial intelligence (AI) computing, major operators have shifted their global chip production towards AI data centers. This has led to a substantial rise in global memory and storage component prices, putting pressure on the personal computer (PC) market. Industry giants such as Asus, Dell, Lenovo, and HP have confirmed that computer prices will increase by 15% to 20%.
According to a report from the International Business Times (IBTimes), Asus recently announced strategic price adjustments for some products starting from January 5, 2026. The primary reason cited for this move is the continued rise in costs of DRAM memory and NAND/SSD storage components. This decision coincides with the eve of the 2026 Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2026) in Las Vegas.
Asus stated that there has been a structural fluctuation in the global memory supply chain, driven by adjustments in upstream supplier capacity distribution, increased investment costs in advanced manufacturing processes, and a structural gap in the industry caused by the demand for AI computing power. These factors are exerting continuous upward cost pressure on critical computer components.
The company emphasized that the price adjustments are a necessary decision made after absorbing long-term cost pressures. The aim is to ensure stable supply, maintain product quality and service levels, and continue to support customers’ key IT investments.
Research firm IDC pointed out that major manufacturers such as Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, and Micron Technology are prioritizing the production of high-bandwidth memory (HBM) for AI data centers, rather than standard DRAM for laptops and smartphones. This shift has led to a strategic reallocation of global silicon wafer production capacity.
IDC analysts explained that for each additional HBM wafer used for Nvidia GPUs, it means a reduction in memory supply for consumer-grade computer devices.
IDC confirmed that several computer manufacturers including Lenovo, Dell, HP, Acer, and Asus have warned customers that their computer product lines will see a price increase of 15% to 20% in 2026, prompting contract resets.
According to data reported by TrendForce, the DRAM memory price index has surged by 70%. Gerry Chen, the general manager of Taiwan memory giant TeamGroup, told DigiTimes that contract prices for certain DRAM and NAND components saw a monthly increase of 80% to 100% in December.
Dell’s Chief Operating Officer, Jeff Clarke, told Bloomberg that he has never seen memory chip costs rise so rapidly, calling it truly unprecedented.
HP’s CEO, Enrique Lores, noted that memory now accounts for 15% to 18% of PC production costs, approximately twice that of last year.