PlayStation 6 Could Be Delayed as Rising RAM Prices Threaten Console Costs

By Shikhar Mehrotra • Updated On Dec 30, 2025

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TL; DR

Memory module prices have spiked by “several hundred percent” in recent months as AI and data-center customers (both individual and enterprise) absorb more DRAM supply.
As a result, OEMs are reportedly debating whether to postpone the release of next-generation systems, as this would give the memory supply and pricing time to stabilize.

If you’ve been waiting to get your hands on a next-generation gaming console like the PlayStation 6, there’s some bad news for you. According to Insider Gaming, the dramatic increase in RAM prices, driven by soaring demand from the AI and server markets, could directly affect the gaming console industry.

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Industry Under Pressure: Higher Costs and Scarce DRAM

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Memory module prices have spiked by “several hundred percent” in recent months as AI and data-center customers (both individual and enterprise) absorb more DRAM supply, decreasing availability for consumer-grade products like PCs, smartphones, and gaming consoles.

As a result, OEMs are reportedly debating whether to postpone the release of next-generation systems, as this would give the memory supply and pricing more time to stabilize. The report mentions that the “industry as a whole is concerned about RAM availability,” and how it could affect mass production of consoles “at a competitive pricing.”

Also Read: Poco M8 5G, With A 7.35mm Side Profile, Will Launch On January 8, 2025

More concerning, the RAM shortage could also affect current-generation consoles in 2026. In other words, rising RAM costs could push up the prices of consoles like PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.

For gamers, delayed launches and rising hardware costs could mean waiting longer for next-generation performance improvements. If the situation doesn’t improve, manufacturers may need to reconsider their pricing strategy or adjust system applications to balance performance with affordability.

Also Read: vivo X300 Ultra Engineering Sample Leaked: Slim Bezels and Familiar Camera Design

As the situation develops, the battle between rapidly evolving AI workloads and consumer technology demand continues to shape the future of gaming hardware in 2026 and beyond.

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Shikhar Mehrotra

Shikhar Mehrotra is a seasoned technology writer and reviewer with over five years of experience covering consumer tech across India and global markets. At Smartprix, he has authored more than 1,700 articles, including news stories, features, comparisons, and product reviews spanning automobiles, smartphones, chipsets, wearables, laptops, home appliances, and operating systems. Shikhar has reviewed flagship devices such as the iPhone 16, Galaxy S25+, and Sennheiser HD 505 Open-Ear headphones. He also contributes regularly to Smartprix’s growing automotive section.

With a deep understanding of both iOS and Android ecosystems, Shikhar specializes in daily tech news, how-to explainers, product comparisons, and in-depth reviews. His DSLR photography in product reviews is recognized as among the best on the team.

Before joining Smartprix, Shikhar wrote for leading publications including Forbes Advisor India, Republic World, and ScreenRant. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication from Amity University, Lucknow.

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