AI Memory Demand Lifts Prices as Apple, Xbox Raise Costs

Surging demand for memory chips from AI data centers is squeezing supply for consumer devices, driving successive price hikes for smartphones, PCs and game consoles. On June 25, 2026, Apple raised prices on MacBooks and iPads while Microsoft announced increases for Xbox consoles the same day, marking what has been called a "second round" of price increases for consumer electronics (WIRED).