Memory price surge of ‘more than 600%’ squeezes China’s device makers

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Ann CaoFebruary 12, 2026 at 03:00 PM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

A global memory supply shock is causing memory prices to surge, impacting electronics manufacturers, particularly in China. Data from TrendForce and Counterpoint Research indicate memory prices for consumer devices have increased over 600% in the past year due to high demand from AI data centers. This price increase threatens Chinese smartphone and broadband equipment manufacturers, especially those focused on entry-level devices. TrendForce projects a 10% decrease in global smartphone production in 2026 due to rising memory costs, with companies like Xiaomi and Transsion expected to significantly reduce production. These companies are already adjusting shipment targets in response to the increased costs.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Counterpoint Research 50% Transsion ×270% Xiaomi ×280% China ×4100%

Keywords

memory price surge 100% supply shock 80% consumer electronics 70% smartphone production 70% artificial intelligence 60% data centers 60% supply crunch 50% entry-level smartphones 50% component costs 50% production revisions 40%