An expert from NYU Stern warns of the emergence of a "hidden AI tax" caused by semiconductor shortages. Due to manufacturers reorienting their capacity toward producing expensive HBM memory for data centers, the cost of standard DRAM is rising sharply, which will inevitably lead to more expensive consumer electronics.
What Happened
By the first quarter of 2026, standard DRAM memory prices have nearly doubled. This is because manufacturers such as Micron and SK Hynix are redirecting their production capacity to produce high-performance HBM memory required for artificial intelligence infrastructure. This trend will affect flagship devices from major market players, including Apple, Dell, and Lenovo.
Context
The growing demand for AI infrastructure is changing the fundamental dynamics of the semiconductor market: the struggle for demand is being replaced by the management of scarce capacity. Resource allocation priority is now given to high-margin solutions for data centers, creating a structural shortage of standard components for the consumer segment.
Why It Matters for the Industry
For the semiconductor industry and electronics manufacturers, this signifies a shift toward a new market reality where high-performance memory for AI becomes the primary profit driver. Companies are forced to revise procurement strategies and face pressure on margins due to the need to compete with data centers for scarce components.
Why It Matters for Users
Average users will face rising retail prices for new flagship smartphones and laptops. In addition to direct price increases due to new AI features, devices will become more expensive because of the global struggle for components, in which data centers hold a price advantage over the consumer market.
What Is Not Yet Known / Limitations
No significant factual discrepancies were found. The discussion boils down to different aspects of the impact of the same process (from the profitability of enterprise solutions to hardware availability for solo builders).
Sources
Author
Look at AI, Editorial Staff