URGENT UPDATE: Qualcomm has just announced a severe shortage of RAM for smartphones, attributing this crisis to the insatiable demand from AI data centers. As of now, the tech industry faces a paradox: while innovations accelerate, consumer devices are suffering from dwindling resources.
The mobile processing giant revealed that high-bandwidth memory, essential for AI infrastructure, is monopolizing the RAM supply, leaving smartphone manufacturers in a tight spot. Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon emphasized that this memory crunch is reshaping production schedules. Manufacturers are now forced to limit device production based on available RAM, leading to a game of digital Tetris in the industry.
Currently, the demand for new smartphones is at an all-time high, but the supply of DRAM—the standard memory used in these devices—has dropped sharply compared to just a year ago. Many of Qualcomm’s partners are focusing on premium models, which can better absorb the rising costs of memory components. This shift means that mid-range and low-end devices are likely to see price increases as the situation worsens.
The “memory crunch” is a direct consequence of rapid AI expansion. Major memory producers like Samsung and Micron are prioritizing high-margin orders from AI data centers, leaving the mobile sector scrambling for scarce resources. Even tech giant Apple has indicated that it struggles to secure enough chips to meet demands for its latest products.
Qualcomm’s revenue for the past quarter exceeded $10 billion, but the company remains cautious about future sales due to this supply imbalance. They do not anticipate a significant impact from their AI data center chips until 2027.
As long as AI data centers continue to consume memory resources, the smartphone industry must remain adaptable. Experts predict that 2026 could see an overwhelming dominance of “Pro” or “Ultra” models on store shelves, simply because these are the only types manufacturers can afford to produce.
The ongoing RAM shortage is not just a technical issue; it affects consumers directly. With prices rising and fewer options available, customers might find themselves paying more for the devices they want. As Qualcomm continues to navigate this challenging landscape, the urgency for solutions has never been greater.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
