SK hynix expects the memory shortage to last through 2030, as demand for chips used in AI infrastructure grows faster than manufacturers can add supply.
The South Korean chipmaker shared the outlook with record third-quarter results on Oct. 28. For anyone shopping for PC parts, laptops or phones, the forecast points to continued pressure on a key component market. It does not say how much a particular product will cost in the coming years.
Why does SK hynix expect a longer shortage?
In its third-quarter results release, SK hynix says it expects demand to keep exceeding supply through 2030. The company points to rising demand for AI memory and the difficulty of producing advanced chips.
New production capacity also takes time to build. SK hynix plans to ramp its M15X fab to maximum capacity by the end of the year to boost HBM4 output, and says the first phase of its Yongin site enters full-scale operation next year.
This is SK hynix’s own outlook. Market conditions could change as manufacturers add capacity or demand shifts.
Record revenue as AI memory sales grow
SK hynix reported third-quarter revenue of 104.6 trillion Korean won and operating profit of 83.3 trillion won, both quarterly records. Revenue rose 32% from the previous quarter, while operating profit increased 38%.
The company said server DDR5 sales grew significantly and HBM4 shipments began in earnest during the quarter. HBM is high-bandwidth memory, a type of chip designed to move large amounts of data quickly alongside AI processors. SK hynix describes the results as preliminary, and the figures may change during its independent audit.
Will RAM, laptops and phones become more expensive?
A tight memory market can put pressure on the cost of RAM and storage used in consumer electronics. But HBM, PC DRAM, mobile memory and NAND storage are different products, and they do not necessarily move in price at the same rate.
The price of a finished product also depends on a manufacturer’s contracts, exchange rates, local inventory, competition and retailer promotions. In the Philippines, the peso exchange rate and local stock add to that mix. SK hynix did not give a retail price forecast, so its outlook alone cannot tell you what a laptop, phone or RAM kit will cost next year or in 2030.
If you are planning a PC build or upgrade, compare current prices across reputable sellers and buy the capacity you actually need. For a phone or laptop, compare complete configurations and warranty coverage rather than reacting to a shortage headline.
TechPipino has also covered the wider pressure on PC hardware prices, the factors behind rising phone prices and a report that Samsung is weighing Q4 phone production cuts as memory costs rise.
Why it matters
SK hynix’s forecast suggests competition for memory production capacity may remain a long-term issue as AI infrastructure expands. For consumers, the key point is to watch actual prices and availability rather than assume every device will become more expensive on the same schedule.
Frequently asked questions
Does SK hynix expect a memory shortage until 2030?
Yes. The company expects demand to exceed supply through 2030, citing AI-related demand, manufacturing complexity and the time needed to build new capacity. It is a forecast, not a confirmed timeline.
Does this mean PC RAM will be sold out?
No. SK hynix did not say consumer RAM will disappear from shops. HBM, PC DRAM and NAND are different products, and availability can vary by product and seller.
Should I buy a phone or PC now?
Buy when the device meets your needs and budget. Compare current prices and specifications, but do not assume this forecast guarantees a particular future price increase.
