AI boom chip shortage lifts smartphone prices

What happened before and after this story. Background events not previously covered were summarised by AI.

1. 1 Jan 2021Background

   Global chip shortage disrupts carmakers and electronics production from 2021

   A worldwide semiconductor shortage that began to bite in 2021 halted car lines and delayed consumer electronics, exposing fragile chip supply chains.

2. 1 Nov 2025Background

   AI Demand Drives Sharp Surge in Memory Chip Prices

   In late 2025, memory chip prices climbed sharply as AI data centres absorbed DRAM and high-bandwidth memory supply, leaving less for phones and PCs.

3. 

   6 Nov

   Smartphone prices jumped 14% as the AI boom starves phones of chips

   Global smartphone prices rose 14% in the first quarter as AI data centres soak up memory chips. Here's why your next phone may cost more.