Demand from AI data centers could cause memory shortages to 'widen even further' in 2027. Samsung predicted a severe RAM shortage next year.
See also: Mac Mini and Mac Studio shipments delayed due to RAM shortage
It may be a long time before the RAM shortage that is driving up prices in everything from phones to portable game consoles ends. During an earnings call on Thursday, Samsung predicted that the severe memory shortage, stemming from demand from artificial intelligence data centers, will not only continue next year but likely worsen, Reuters.
As Samsung's memory division executive director, Kim Jaejune, said during the conference call:
‘Our supply is far below customer demand. Based on the demand received for 2027 alone, the supply-demand gap for 2027 is expected to widen even further than in 2026.‘
Samsung's forecast follows reports earlier this month that the world's largest RAM makers may not be able to meet demand until 2030. Samsung's chip shortages could worsen further if it fails to reach an agreement with its labor union, which is planning an 18-day strike starting on May 21.
See also: AI demands will increase smartphone storage in 2026
This situation raises concerns about the future of the tech industry, as RAM is a key component for the performance and speed of devices. Consumers may see price increases on memory-dependent products, while manufacturers may face challenges in production and development of new technologies.
The growing demand from AI data centers is driven by the need for more processing power and data storage as AI applications become more complex and demanding. This is putting pressure on memory manufacturers to increase their production, which is proving difficult due to limited resources and technological challenges.
Furthermore, the potential strike by Samsung's labor union could worsen the situation, as it could disrupt production and delay product delivery. Samsung will need to carefully manage its relations with its workforce to avoid further supply chain problems.
See also: Framework increases RAM and storage prices again
Overall, the situation requires careful monitoring and strategic solutions from memory manufacturers and technology companies in order to address the challenges and ensure stability in the memory market.
