DRAM prices have surged nearly 300% in three months, with 16Gb DDR5 chips rising from $6.84 in September to $27.20 by December 2025 as memory manufacturers prioritize high-bandwidth chips for AI data centers over conventional RAM for consumer electronics.
Apple is concentrating its iPhone 17 memory orders with Samsung, which will supply 60% to 70% of low-power DRAM compared to a previously balanced split with SK Hynix, as 12GB modules now cost $70 versus $30 at the beginning of 2025.
Industry analysts warn the shortage could persist until 2027 or 2028 when new fabrication plants come online, with SK Hynix telling analysts that memory deficits may last until late 2027 as chipmakers struggle to balance AI infrastructure demand against traditional electronics needs.
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