The RAM Crunch Could Kill Products and Even Entire Companies, Memory Exec Admits
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by msmashFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The global RAM shortage is escalating into a critical crisis that could reshape the tech industry, with major implications for companies and consumers alike. In a recent interview, Phison CEO Pua Khein-Seng warned that the ongoing memory crunch could force businesses to cut product lines or even shut down entirely by late 2026 if they fail to secure adequate supplies. While he did not directly predict these outcomes, he agreed with the interviewer's assessment during their discussion on Taiwanese broadcaster Next TV.
The shortage is primarily driven by AI data centers consuming an unprecedented share of global memory supply, causing RAM prices to surge three to six times over recent months. This demand spike has been exacerbated by the fact that only three companies—Samsung, Intel/Micron, and SK Hynix—control 93% of the DRAM market, with all prioritizing profits over rapid expansion. As a result, even major tech players like Nvidia and Apple are facing challenges in securing chips, potentially leading to product delays or discontinuations.
This situation highlights the fragility of the global semiconductor supply chain and its reliance on a concentrated group of manufacturers. With memory prices soaring and supplies tightening, companies across industries are forced to adapt. Khein-Seng also noted that consumers may increasingly shift from replacing broken devices to repairing them, signaling a broader cultural shift in how technology is consumed.
For tech enthusiasts, this crisis underscores the interconnectedness of the industry and the potential for widespread disruptions. From gaming GPUs to consumer electronics, no sector seems immune from the impact of rising memory costs and shortages. As AI continues to dominate memory usage, the imbalance between demand and supply shows little sign of abating, leaving many companies vulnerable to significant restructuring or failure.
Ultimately, this RAM shortage is not just a temporary hiccup but a transformative challenge for the tech industry. Its implications extend beyond individual companies to the broader economy, innovation, and consumer behavior. As the world grapples with the consequences, the balance between technological progress and resource constraints will likely remain a key issue for years to come.
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Originally published on Slashdot on 2/19/2026