Apple Raises Hardware Prices About 20% as AI-Driven DRAM Costs Surge 400%
Updated
Updated · Computerworld · Aug 11
Apple Raises Hardware Prices About 20% as AI-Driven DRAM Costs Surge 400%
3 articles · Updated · Computerworld · Aug 11
Summary
Apple has lifted prices by roughly 20% across most hardware, excluding iPhones for now, after memory inflation pushed its product build costs 38% higher.
DRAM prices have jumped more than 400% since early 2024 as AI data centers absorb about 70% of output, leaving enterprise buyers facing multi-year shortages and further increases.
Samsung, Dell, Lenovo, HP and Acer have already raised device prices, while Microsoft added a 10% increase to Windows 11 licenses and Google is expected to follow with Pixel hikes.
Gartner expects memory prices to rise about 130% by year-end, pushing companies toward longer replacement cycles, leasing, refurbished devices and more selective spending on AI-ready hardware.