AI Data Center Demand Causes Memory Chip Shortage, Driving Up PC Prices by 17%

A significant memory chip shortage, primarily driven by AI data centers acquiring large quantities of DRAM and NAND flash, has led to a nearly 20% increase in memory chip prices in Q3 2026. This shortage is projected to cause a 10.4% decline in global PC shipments in 2026, as memory costs now account for an estimated 23% of a PC's total bill of materials, up from 16% in 2025.