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If you're waiting for the global memory crisis to ease before buying a new phone, laptop, or any other consumer gadget, you may want to reconsider. Samsung Electronics warns that the global memory chip shortage will continue into 2027 and may even worsen.
“Unlike in previous years, we are already receiving orders for 2027 from customers concerned about supply shortages," Kim Jaejune, head of Samsung’s memory business, said during an earnings call, Nikkei Asia reports. “Based on the orders received so far, the supply gap relative to 2027 demand is expected to widen even further compared to 2026."
Samsung didn’t explain what worsening would mean for the consumer tech industry at large, but it’s likely to lead to even higher gadget prices, as demand for memory used in AI data centers drives up the cost of essential components like RAM.
Many consumer tech brands have hiked prices in recent months, with some even canceling high-spec variants, saying they’re not financially sustainable right now. Samsung’s own consumer-facing business has raised prices, including increases to existing smartphones and tablets.
One DRAM supplier claimed in March that it believes the shortage may last up to five years, potentially into 2030.
In its earnings report, Samsung announced its best-ever quarter, driven by its memory business. Quarterly profits increased by more than 750% compared with the same period a year ago.
Many Samsung employees are threatening to strike unless the brand removes a bonus cap and offers 15% of its operating profit directly to workers. Absent a deal, the strike is set to last for 18 days, starting on May 21.