The global shortage of RAM,a key part inside smartphones, laptops, and many other devices is expected to continue for years. A report by Nikkei Asia says manufacturers may meet only 60% of total demand by 2027. Even more worrying, the chairman of South Korea’s SK Group has warned the shortage could last until 2030. Chip makers are expanding, but slowly Major memory companies like Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron are trying to increase production. However, most of their new factories won’t start working before 2027 or 2028. So far, the only notable expansion for 2026 is a new SK Hynix facility in Cheongju. That means supply improvements in the short term will remain limited. Demand is rising faster than supply To keep up with global needs, RAM production would have to grow by about 12% each year in 2026 and 2027. But research firm Counterpoint says companies are planning only a 7.5% increase. Adding to the challenge, many new factories will mainly produce high-bandwidth memory (HBM) a special type of RAM used in AI data centers, not regular consumer gadgets. What this means for device prices Since companies are focusing more on AI-related memory instead of standard DRAM used in phones and computers, everyday electronics may stay expensive. In fact, the ongoing shortage has already pushed up prices of smartphones, laptops, VR headsets, and gaming handheld devices. Experts believe that unless production increases faster than current plans, the RAM shortage and the price pressure it brings could continue for several more years.
