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A severe global RAM shortage has pushed smartphone prices up worldwide
According to recent data from Counterpoint Research, average smartphone prices jumped 15% globally.
In a rare move, Samsung even raised prices on existing models post-launch to cushion the impact of rising production costs.
The price hike hit developing markets the hardest, with India seeing a 21% surge, while the Asia Pacific region recorded a 19% increase. Countries that play a key role in chip production felt the least impact.
To keep retail costs somewhat manageable, mobile brands have begun cutting back on hardware.
Consumers are starting to see new phones launching with lower storage options, stripped-down cameras, and reduced RAM.
In several budget price segments, manufacturers have even reintroduced 4G-only models to manage manufacturing costs and keep prices down
It is a tactical step backward designed to offer functional devices to buyers who are priced out of 5G handsets.
Unfortunately, industry analysts expect the component pinch to get worse before it gets better.
Market forecasts project the RAM shortage will tighten significantly starting in 2027, with production capacity expected to remain fully booked through late 2028.
