In 2026, the price of laptops has escalated significantly due to a global memory shortage, primarily fueled by heightened demand from the artificial intelligence sector. Prices for major brands such as Dell, HP, and Lenovo have risen between 15% and 30% this year. The surge in prices is largely attributed to a 95% increase in DRAM prices in the first quarter, with further hikes expected. Memory components now account for about 35% of manufacturing costs, a sharp rise from historical levels. Analysts predict that the entry-level laptop segment, priced under $500, may disappear by 2028 as manufacturers shift focus to premium models capable of absorbing increased costs. The AI industry's demand for high-bandwidth memory and server-grade chips has led to a situation where 70% of global memory production is consumed by AI systems, leaving little capacity for consumer devices. Additionally, geopolitical tensions have disrupted shipping routes, further straining supply chains and driving costs higher.