Why RAM and Storage Costs Are Skyrocketing

 

The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence is driving an unprecedented surge in global demand for computer memory, causing steep price hikes for RAM, SSDs, and other storage components. Major AI developers—including OpenAI, Google, Microsoft, and Amazon—are buying massive quantities of high-end memory for their data centers, often outbidding consumer manufacturers. As a result, the cost of everyday electronics is climbing across the board.

Over just a few weeks, DDR5 RAM prices have doubled in some cases, with premium kits jumping more than 100%. Retailers are already scrambling to keep up with the volatility. Some stores have even removed fixed price tags, switching to spot pricing because memory costs change so rapidly.

This shortage affects more than PC upgrades. Laptops, TVs, gaming consoles, and handheld devices all rely on the same memory manufacturers—primarily Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron, which control roughly 90% of the market. As existing inventory runs out, consumers can expect higher prices for new devices and fewer deals on components. Even GPUs may rise in cost again as video memory becomes more expensive.

Console makers are feeling the pressure, too. Microsoft has already raised Xbox prices twice in 2025, with more increases possible. Sony reportedly stockpiled RAM early, but that buffer won’t last forever. The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 may also face higher storage costs due to rising microSD prices.

Data Centers Are Outbidding Consumer Tech

Analysts predict memory and flash storage prices will continue climbing into 2026 unless production expands or AI companies reduce consumption. For now, the demand from AI data centers is overpowering supply, and consumers are left footing the bill as nearly every gadget becomes more expensive to make—and to buy.

Analysts predict that memory and flash storage prices will continue climbing into 2026 unless production increases or AI companies curb consumption. Reports from Reuters and TrendForce indicate that major NAND manufacturers are “taking turns raising prices,” creating a cascading effect throughout the market. Although the memory sector is expected to grow rapidly, that growth won’t be enough to ease demand. Additionally, the Korean newspaper Chosun Biz reports that Samsung and SK Hynix reduced flash supply in late 2025, further tightening the market. Samsung is also considering additional price hikes of 20% to 30%, signaling more volatility ahead.

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Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems delivers professional results for all your computer needs. We design, create, and code various custom software programs and websites. Additionally, we offer superior digital marketing services, including enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and paid advertising. We also repair and support commercial computer infrastructure, build custom systems and servers, and provide secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call (810)224-5252 or email info@cpsmi.com us!

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Powering Discovery: U.S. Invests $1B in AMD Supercomputers

 

The U.S. Department of Energy and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) have announced a $1 billion partnership to build two next-generation supercomputers, named Lux and Discovery, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee. The systems are designed to accelerate research in nuclear energy, national security, and cancer treatment.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the new systems will “supercharge” innovation in nuclear and fusion energy, drug development, and defense technologies by providing unprecedented computational power. The Lux system, co-developed with AMD, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Oracle Cloud, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory, will launch within six months and deliver roughly three times the AI capacity of current U.S. supercomputers.

Powered by AMD’s new MI355X AI chips, Lux marks the fastest large-scale supercomputer deployment in U.S. history. The second system, Discovery, featuring AMD’s upcoming MI430 chips, is expected to be available in 2029 and will further expand America’s high-performance computing and AI capabilities.

Supercomputers handle calculations millions to billions of times faster than standard laptops by connecting thousands of processors that work simultaneously—a technique called parallel processing. Learn more about how supercomputers operate here. 

Both systems will support joint public-private research, with the DOE hosting the machines and partners sharing access. Officials say this collaboration signals the start of a new era of U.S. investment in supercomputing infrastructure to accelerate scientific discovery and maintain global competitiveness in AI and energy innovation.

The U.S. hosts over 170 supercomputers, including five of the world’s ten most powerful. China and Germany follow in second and third place for total systems (view breakdown).

View original Reuters and Tom’s Hardware articles. 

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Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems delivers professional results for all your computer needs. We design, create, and code various custom software programs and websites. Additionally, we offer superior digital marketing services, including enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and paid advertising. We also repair and support commercial computer infrastructure, build custom systems and servers, and provide secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call (810)224-5252 or email info@cpsmi.com us!

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.