"Memflation": Cheaper RAM not expected until 2028, says Gartner
a day ago
- #semiconductor
- #AI
- #memory
- DRAM and NAND flash chip prices are expected to rise sharply, with DRAM up 125% and NAND flash up 234% this year.
- Gartner forecasts worldwide semiconductor revenue to grow 64% to $1.3 trillion in 2026, driven largely by high memory chip prices, not increased production volumes.
- 'Memflation' is predicted to weaken or delay non-AI hardware demand until 2028, as expensive memory chips stifle markets outside of AI applications.
- AI chips are expected to make up 30% of all devices sold in 2026, but rising memory prices may also dampen demand for some AI chips due to high DRAM and flash requirements.
- Significant price reductions for RAM and flash memory are not anticipated until late 2027, after a period of sharp price increases.