Consumer Electronics Prices Rise as Memory Chip Shortage Persists

Apple announced higher prices for MacBooks and iPads in June. Xbox consoles will carry increased prices beginning in August. The moves follow earlier increases on the PlayStation 5 Pro and come amid broader cost pressures on consumer electronics. The price changes are driven primarily by a continuing shortage of memory chips.

Manufacturers have directed production capacity toward components used in AI data centers rather than chips needed for phones, computers, and game consoles. Industry observers note that the imbalance between supply and demand shows no sign of easing in the near term.

Shawn DuBravac, chief economist at the Global Electronics Association, said companies are unlikely to absorb the added costs given the sustained nature of the shortage. He stated that waiting for prices to fall is not a viable strategy for buyers at present.

DuBravac recommended purchasing refurbished devices when possible and monitoring products that have not yet seen increases. Thibaud Hug de Larauze, CEO of the secondhand marketplace Back Market, said consumers are concerned about paying higher prices for upcoming purchases.

He noted that fear of further increases may accelerate upgrade cycles. Sean Cleland, vice president of Mobility tech at recommerce company B-Stock, reported that used smartphones are selling for 10 to 20 percent more than they did in December 2025.

Cleland said the supply chain will eventually adjust but that secondary market prices will remain above 2025 levels. Manufacturers have expanded their own trade-in and buyback programs in response to the shortage. The increased value of used devices has made resale more attractive for owners looking to offset new purchase costs.