IDC predicts increase of up to 8% in PC prices in 2026

The unfortunate saga of bloated AI bubble continues: IDC predicts an increase of up to 8% in the price of PCs in 2026! The market analysis company revised its projections for the technology sector in light of the shortage of memory chips.

The increase in demand for specific components for artificial intelligence (AI) is affecting the entire supply chain.

As more Manufacturers raise semiconductor pricesthe final cost of computers should rise. IDC maintains its initial forecast of a 2.4% contraction no world PC market to 2026but created new scenarios due to the situation.

However, before we continue with more information, check out the main questions and answers (FAQs) about the IDC study:

New IDC scenarios for the PC market

The updated analysis considers the evolution of memory supply NAND e DRAM. In a scenario considered moderate, the drop in computer sales could reach 4.9%. In turn, a more negative outlook points to a contraction of 8.9% in the same period.

To be decline in units sold will be accompanied (as always…) by a increase in costs for the consumer. In the moderate forecast, prices could rise between 4% and 6%. In the pessimistic version, the increases can reach 8%.

Manufacturers are already adjusting prices and changing sales

Large companies in the segment began to take measures. Dell e Lenovotwo of the leading business and consumer PC brands, reported that adjustments to your products can reach 15%.

To try to combat the difficulties of the moment, some companies have stopped selling separate RAM memory.

The brand Framework adopted this measure to prevent resale by speculators. Other manufacturers of ready-made systems began to offer the option of purchase the computer without the memory modules installed.

Demand for HBM for AI is the root cause

The pressure on the market originates from the sudden growth in demand for High Bandwidth Memory (HBM), used in AI data centers. The production lines for these high-performance chips are the same as those for conventional memories.

Given the greater profitability of components for artificial intelligencemanufacturers prioritized this line. The decision not to expand production capacity or build new factories aims to avoid losses in the event of a possible slowdown in the AI ​​sector.

Structuring new manufacturing units requires billion-dollar investments and takes yearsa considerable risk if current demand is not sustained.

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IDC predicts an increase of up to 8% in the price of PCs in 2026; conclusions

A representative of Kingston suggested that consumers who need memory upgrades, storage or a new computer consider making the purchase now.

The expectation is that SSD and RAM prices will continue to rise in 2026.

In any case, to avoid unnecessary expenses, we recommend considering the urgency of the acquisition. For users whose systems still meet needs for the next few years, it may be advantageous to wait for a hypothetical stabilization.

The problem with all this is that We are still in a highly speculative phase. Do you remember that, at the beginning of this year, the concern was about the relationship between China and the USAheaded by the president Donald Trump?

Then: o political scenario, despite being far from stable, did not reach catastrophic levels that many projected (fortunately). Therefore, it is recommended to wait and watch the situation unfold.

A AI bubble is still very volatile e unpredictable. Although it is unlikely to fully “pop” in the next few years, demand for components these days is still being driven by exaggerated enthusiasm.

But what then? What did you think of the situation? Are you going to upgrade your RAM now or later? Share your point of view in this post and continue following Adrenaline!

Source: Tom’s Hardware