The AI revolution is devouring hardware resources, and gamers might be the ones paying the bill. New reports indicate that skyrocketing RAM prices could force Sony and Microsoft to delay the PlayStation 6 and the next Xbox.
The RAM Crisis Explained
The cost of RAM modules has jumped by hundreds of percent recently. This surge stems directly from the explosive demand for Artificial Intelligence. Tech giants are buying up memory supplies to power AI models, leaving little inventory for the rest of the tech world.
Insider Gaming reports that this scarcity is causing panic. Discussions at the highest levels of the gaming industry suggest that securing enough RAM to mass-produce next-gen consoles—while keeping prices realistic—is becoming impossible.
If these costs don't stabilize, manufacturers simply cannot build the PS6 or the next Xbox without charging astronomical prices.
A Shift in the Timeline
Industry insiders originally pegged the next generation of consoles for a 2027 or 2028 release window. That timeline is now in jeopardy.
Sources indicate that manufacturers are considering a strategic delay. The goal is to wait until RAM production ramps up enough to lower costs. However, current projections show no signs of the AI demand slowing down.
The bad news extends beyond future hardware. The report suggests that even current consoles (PS5 and Xbox Series X|S) could face price hikes in 2026 due to these component shortages.
Developers Adapt to the Squeeze
A delay creates a complex situation for game studios. Many developers are likely already working on launch titles for the PS6 and next Xbox. A hardware delay leaves them stuck on projects for longer periods without generating revenue.
However, there is a silver lining. Swen Vincke, CEO of Larian Studios (Baldur's Gate 3), noted that hardware constraints force better optimization. Instead of relying on raw power to run unoptimized code, developers must refine their engines. This could lead to better-performing games on the hardware we already own.
What Should You Do: Buy Now or Wait?
The era of cheap, powerful hardware is hitting a pause button. If you are waiting for the next generation to upgrade, you might be waiting a long time. Furthermore, the threat of price hikes for current consoles in 2026 makes a strong case for securing your hardware setup sooner rather than later.
The industry is pivoting. Until memory manufacturers can satisfy the AI beast, the gaming hardware cycle will remain disrupted.
Do you think a longer console generation will help developers polish their games, or is the hardware getting too old?
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