Since the latter half of 2025, there has been a sharp increase in the prices of DRAM and NAND memory chips, with some spot prices even doubling. This has led to considerable instability in the global memory chip market. The current wave of price rises can be attributed to a spike in AI computing demand, adjustments in the supply chain, and production cutbacks by manufacturers. The demand for high-bandwidth memory (HBM) in AI servers has witnessed a remarkable upswing. As a result, manufacturers have redirected their production capacity towards high-margin products. This shift has subsequently led to a reduction in the supply of traditional DRAM and NAND. Simultaneously, leading manufacturers, including Samsung and SK Hynix, have curtailed production capacity for older products like DDR4, which has further tightened supply.

Regarding pricing, DDR4 has experienced a cumulative price hike of over 200% throughout the year, whereas DDR5 prices have escalated by nearly 120%. Over a six-month period, NAND spot prices have risen by roughly 50%. This wave of price increases has had a substantial impact on the consumer electronics industry, placing PC manufacturers under significant cost pressure. Brands such as Dell, HP, and Lenovo are planning to implement price hikes. Due to the escalating memory costs, some mid-range and low-end smartphones have found themselves in a negative margin situation. Market analysts are of the opinion that the trend of price increases may continue until the first half of 2026, making it inevitable for end products to witness price rises.