INTC · News · 20260918N
Memory Supply and Pricing Pressure
INTEL CORP · 2026-09-18 · Importance 45 · Surprise 64
Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan said memory chip prices have increased by approximately 500% to 700%, reflecting limited supply and strong AI demand. Memory reportedly represents roughly 75% of the cost of some lower-end phones and laptops, increasing pressure on hardware economics and potentially reducing customer spending on mainstream PCs and conventional servers. Industry bottlenecks are expected to worsen in 2027, while new factory output may not materially ease the shortage until 2028 or 2029. The tight supply environment is benefiting memory manufacturers such as Micron and SK hynix, while raising input-cost and demand risks for Intel’s processor customers.