This is a translation of a foreign article, so there may be mistranslations.
https://www.flatpanelshd.com/news.php?subaction=showfull&id=1767786484
Samsung warns of possible TV price increases amid RAM crisis
Samsung's top executives are warning of price increases due to memory chip shortages and urging consumers to prepare. They disclosed that TVs are highly likely to be affected as well.
DRAM and NAND prices have surged two to three times over the past 3-5 months, a result of converting appliance production lines to meet artificial intelligence (AI)-related demand. Further price increases are expected in 2026.
This can be attributed to the crude AI content flooding social media.
Samsung warned at CES 2026 held in Las Vegas that this shortage is now turning into a crisis affecting everyone. Despite TVs not using high-performance DRAM, TV prices are expected to rise as well.
"This situation is unprecedented, and no company can escape its impact." Roh Tae-moon, co-CEO of Samsung Electronics, said in an interview with Reuters, adding that this crisis is impacting not only smartphones but also TVs and other consumer appliances across the board.
How much higher will prices go?
For mass-produced consumer products, manufacturers typically operate under long-term supply contracts, which is why TV prices have not seen sharp increases so far. However, price adjustments may follow as contracts are renewed or new TV models are released.
"There will be issues related to semiconductor supply, and it will affect everyone." Lee Won-jin, Global Marketing Director at Samsung Electronics, told Bloomberg. "Prices are rising even at this very moment. Of course, we don't want to pass that burden on to consumers, but we will reach a point where we will have to consider repricing products."
Market research firm Omdia warned on December 18, 2025, that TV DRAM prices have doubled compared to the first half of 2025. Of course, DRAM is just one of many components that go into a TV, and the most expensive component is the display panel.
TVs are already being sold with very thin margins, especially budget and mid-range models. In contrast, high-end TVs have relatively more room to absorb cost increases.
▶ Source: https://www.flatpanelshd.com/news.php?subaction=showfull&id=1767786484
