The RAM Shortage is Driving Up Electronics Prices in Brazil
TL;DR
The RAM shortage may raise prices of cell phones, notebooks, and even cars in Brazil starting in 2026 due to increased investments in artificial intelligence (AI), redirecting chip production.
The RAM Shortage Impacts Electronics in Brazil
The shortage of RAM may raise the prices of cell phones, notebooks, and even cars in Brazil starting in 2026. Experts warn that the problem is due to the increasing investment in artificial intelligence (AI), which is redirecting chip production.
What is RAM?
RAM (Random Access Memory) is crucial for electronic devices, as it temporarily stores the data needed for applications to function. For example, when you access an application on your phone, its data is kept in the RAM while the operation is ongoing. When you turn off the device, that data is erased.
The Difference Between RAM and Storage
RAM is measured in megabytes (MB) and gigabytes (GB), with more GB indicating better performance. For example, a phone with 12 GB of RAM can perform more tasks simultaneously than one with 3 GB. RAM is used in various devices, such as:
- smart TVs
- tablets
- video game consoles
- smartwatches
- robot vacuums
- cars
- printers
Why is Artificial Intelligence the Root of the Problem?
The increasing demand for AI chips is leading manufacturers to prioritize the production of more advanced memories, which are more profitable. According to Paulo Vizaco, director of Kingston in Brazil, this prioritization is reducing the amount of traditional RAM available in the market.
The current focus has been on DDR4 RAM, which is still widely used in many devices. With the decline in its production, two effects emerge: companies may offer products with less memory, and prices for devices are rising.
Price Increases
A clear example of this increase is the price of a 16 GB DDR4 RAM, which jumped from R$ 650 on November 10 to R$ 1,599 on December 2, an increase of approximately 146%. In Brazil, this pressure on prices is exacerbated by factors such as currency exchange and logistics costs, especially affecting entry-level and mid-range models.
Impact - Affected Sectors and Outlook
In addition to RAM, other types of memory are beginning to feel the effects of the shortage. According to Reuters, the price of high-bandwidth memories (HBM) has already doubled. This can impact HDDs and SSDs as they share the same production chain.
Experts forecast that the crisis may last between 2026 and 2029, with the RAM market facing uncertainties. Vizaco emphasizes that companies are attentive to market fluctuations to better plan production and ensure supply in Brazil.
Conclusion
The current situation highlights a significant shift in technology production due to AI. It is essential for consumers and businesses to prepare for future price adjustments and a possible delay in launches that depend on RAM-based technology.
Content selected and edited with AI assistance. Original sources referenced above.
