RAM Crisis Could Cause Xbox Prices to Rise Again
Tech giant Microsoft is likely to continue raising prices on its Xbox gaming consoles. According to a recent report, an ongoing global RAM shortage may force the company to increase retail console prices once again.
This information comes from the YouTube channel Moore's Law is Dead, which states that Microsoft has warned several partners about the situation. If it happens, this would be the third price increase for the Xbox for US buyers in just 12 months.
+ The Reason for the Shortage: The Explosion of AI Technology
The main reason for this component shortage is the large amount of RAM being hoarded by massive data centers, which are driving the explosion of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
- AI demand is soaring: AI companies, notably OpenAI, recently signed major agreements with Samsung and SK Hynix to secure a massive supply of RAM, up to 900,000 RAM wafers per month.
- Microsoft failed to anticipate this: Microsoft 'clearly did not plan ahead,' leading to the risk of supply disruptions to Xbox Series consoles 'very early on.'
Third Price Increase in 12 Months
If Microsoft implements a price increase, this would be the third such increase in 2025:
- May 2025: The company increased the price of the Xbox Series X by $100 and the Series S by $80.
- September 2025: Another round of Xbox price increases for consumers in the US.
- Other actions: Microsoft had previously faced backlash after raising the prices of some Xbox Game Pass subscription packages.
PlayStation's Rival Has Prepared a Contingency Plan
Information suggests that Microsoft's main rival, Sony, has acted in the opposite way and has been well-prepared for this component crisis.
- Component stockpiling: Sony 'planned ahead, buying large quantities of RAM when prices were low.'
- Affordability: This helps Sony avoid excessive concerns about RAM shortages, at least in the short to medium term.
- Black Friday discounts: This is also a reason why Sony might offer discounts on the PlayStation 5 for Black Friday.
Update 19 March 2026
Micah Soto
Micah Soto is a creator of systematic processes encompassing the design, creation, testing, and maintenance of computer programs and applications. He transforms an idea or a set of user requirements into a functional software product that solves problems, automates tasks, or provides entertainment.
