AI-Driven Chip Shortages to Drive Electronics Price Surge in 2026

Global electronics prices are projected to rise 5%–20% in 2026 as AI-driven demand exacerbates chip shortages. Dell CFO Jeff Clarke noted unprecedented cost increases during a November earnings call, warning that consumers will bear the brunt. The explosion of AI data centers is diverting memory supplies from consumer electronics to high-bandwidth chips for servers.

Raspberry Pi and Lenovo are already feeling the pinch, with the former raising prices and the latter stockpiling components. Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, controlling over 70% of the DRAM market, report 2026 orders exceeding capacity. Samsung recently hiked memory chip prices by up to 60%, citing insatiable AI server demand.

Analysts predict consumers will face sustained price pressures. Macquarie's Daniel forecasts 10%–20% increases, while Nomura's CW Chung expects a more modest 5% rise. The supply crunch shows no signs of abating as manufacturers prioritize AI infrastructure over consumer-grade components.