Smartphone and laptop shoppers could see prices creep up in 2026 as the industry grapples with a shortage of memory chips, according to recent reports from IDC and TrendForce. While smartphone sales are looking healthy this year—especially for Apple, which launched the $2,000 2TB iPhone 17 Pro Max back in September—the coming year could bring some bumps in the road.
Industry analysts are predicting a strong 2025 for smartphone sales, with worldwide shipments expected to increase thanks to solid Apple sales and growth in developing countries. However, that momentum might not last: IDC is now anticipating a slight dip in smartphone production for 2026, due to a lack of key components and adjustments in phone release cycles.
One major factor is a global shortage of memory chips used in phones and laptops. This shortage is expected to drive up costs, hitting lower-priced Android phones particularly hard. Although fewer phones might ship overall, the average price of a smartphone is expected to rise, pushing the market to a new record in spending.
The notebook market faces similar headwinds. TrendForce notes that the cost of memory is rising fast, and that will put pressure on manufacturers. We could see companies either raise prices or adjust their product lines. Consumers may end up holding onto their existing laptops longer or buying used to save money.
The industry faces a tricky balancing act. Companies will need to figure out how to manage costs, adjust their product lines, and keep customers interested. The next couple of years could bring some changes to the types of phones and laptops available, and what we pay for them.
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