It’s not making headlines yet, but it’s already set to shake things up: your next phone. Not the distant future kind, but the one you might actually consider buying in 2026. And the news isn’t exactly good.
The reason? A global DRAM memory shortage hitting the entire electronics industry. And you’ll feel the impact directly in your wallet. As production costs rise, manufacturers are preparing a double hit for entry-level and mid-range models: higher prices, and downgraded performance.
According to market research firm TrendForce, the shift could start as early as next year:
- Budget phones, which currently offer between 4 GB and 8 GB of RAM, could soon be stuck at the lower end, around 4 GB.
- Mid-range models, some of which now reach 12 GB, might be capped at 8 GB max.
The result? You’ll end up paying more for a phone that may feel less smooth and future-proof.
Why this matters for everyone
The shortage is so severe that even Apple, known for its wide profit margins, is feeling the squeeze. The iPhone’s pricing structure may need to be adjusted, meaning fewer discounts on older models.
The tech industry is scrambling to adapt. Laptop makers, for instance, are reportedly focusing production on 16 GB models instead of more powerful versions, in an effort to make the most of limited supply.
The takeaway
If you’ve been planning to replace your current phone with something affordable yet capable, it might be wiser to do it before the end of 2025. Waiting until 2026 could mean facing a market where value for money has dropped significantly.
It’s a kind of technological shrinkflation: paying the same or even more for less. In this case, less memory, and potentially shorter lifespan as apps keep demanding more resources.
Premium phones shouldn’t be hit too hard, but for everyone else, the outlook is cloudy. The best year-end deal might just be the one you don’t see coming.
