If You Need a Laptop, Buy It Now

4 hours ago

RAM prices have skyrocketed due to high demand from data centers powering the AI boom, with a 64GB stick rising from about $250 to over $1,000.
Major electronics companies like Dell and Lenovo have increased computer prices, and companies like Sony have raised console prices (e.g., PlayStation 5 by $100) due to memory shortages.
RAM manufacturers are shifting production to serve AI data centers, allocating about 70% of global memory-chip output to them, causing a shortage for consumer electronics.
The memory crisis, dubbed 'RAMageddon' or 'AI tax,' is leading to more expensive, slower, and worse gadgets, with predictions of extinct computers under $500 by 2028.
Price hikes and product downgrades are affecting smartphones (e.g., Samsung Galaxy costing $100 more) and laptops, with potential increases of over a third in the next few years.
Global impacts include poorer countries facing reduced access to affordable smartphones, and sectors like healthcare and education reconsidering technology purchases due to high RAM costs.
Companies may compensate by raising software prices, adding ads, or reducing 'smart' features in products like smart refrigerators and toilets that contain RAM.

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