During this last month, we have seen how the RAM memories increased in pricedue to the lack of stock, which means that not only computers, but also mobile phones and other equipment that use this component are affected, since manufacturing costs also increase.
Apple seemed to have it under control, but everything indicates that it would not have enough RAM for the next device models it wants to launch, so it will have to rely on brands like Samsung, to achieve this without affecting the user's final cost.
What will happen to mobile RAM in 2026?
Apple is having a headache with the RAM of its iPhones. The 12 GB LPDDR5X modules used by the most advanced iPhones have unexpectedly increased in pricegoing from about 30 dollars per module to almost 70 dollars. It is more than double, and this greatly complicates the company's production plans and its cost calculations, which means that they have to raise the price to the public, and it is something they do not want.
The main reason for this rise is that memory manufacturers, such as SK Hynix or Micron, are focusing most of their production on chips for servers and artificial intelligence data centers, leaving less memory available for mobile phones. As there is less supply, prices rise and Apple has been forced to look for quick solutions to avoid delaying the iPhone.
In order not to be short of components, Apple has had to rely a lot on Samsungwhich can supply a good part of the RAM that new models need. It is estimated that Samsung would be covering between 60% and 70% of the necessary memory, thus ensuring that the production of the next iPhone, such as the iPhone 18, is not affected. Or at least theoretically.
This price increase is not only a cost problem: it also affects the design of the phones. Apple could be forced to use 12 GB of RAM in all models, as 8 GB modules are becoming scarce. This ensures that iPhones work just as well, but somewhat limits the flexibility in the range of models and costs to offer to the end user.
In short, iPhone RAM has become very expensive, Apple has had to turn to Samsung to be able to manufacture enough units, and this could have some effect on final prices or on what the next iPhone will be like. The situation demonstrates how changes in the components market, especially due to the demand for chips for artificial intelligence, can affect even companies as large as Apple, and very quickly, without them having time to react.
We will be attentive to how the market evolves, and if this is ultimately something temporary, or becomes even more complicated, since even TVs or cars need this type of component for their equipment, and it could make the technology rise in price for something as simple as this.
And you, what do you think about it? Leave us a comment with your rating and what you think will happen.
