Laptop prices could rise from RAM shortages and CPU costs

Notebook makers worldwide may face higher laptop prices this year due to RAM shortages and rising CPU costs. These component price increases are squeezing manufacturers, according to TechRadar, and are unrelated to Apple's MacBook Neo.

TechRadar reports that laptop prices could jump dramatically this year. The pressure stems from RAM shortages and rising CPU costs affecting notebook makers globally. Manufacturers may need to adjust prices accordingly to cope with these rising component expenses. The article specifies that the issue is not connected to Apple's MacBook Neo. Published on 2026-03-15, the piece highlights how these supply chain challenges are impacting the industry. No specific figures on price hikes or timelines for shortages were detailed in the available summary.

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Illustration depicting a Microsoft Surface Laptop with a prominent price increase tag due to RAM shortage, amid symbols of AI data centers.
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Microsoft raises prices on Surface PCs due to RAM shortage

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Microsoft has increased prices across its Surface PC lineup, with some models rising by up to $500, citing higher memory and component costs. The changes, now live on the Microsoft Store, affect current-generation hardware originally launched in 2024. Officials blame the hikes on a persistent RAM chip shortage driven by demand from AI data centers.

Apple CEO Tim Cook stated that high memory costs will significantly impact the company's business in coming quarters. He highlighted supply constraints during the latest earnings call despite strong revenue growth. The issue stems from skyrocketing RAM prices driven by AI data center demand.

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A Chinese PC parts vendor who stockpiled DRAM during high prices expressed despair after recent price drops. In a video from a warehouse filled with memory chips, the vendor questioned if prices might rise again. The declines follow AI-driven shortages but are not yet widespread.

A teardown of the MacBook Neo reveals it as Apple's most repairable laptop in years, featuring screw-based assembly without adhesive. Independent tests show its gaming performance ranging from impressive to unplayable. The budget laptop, aimed at the education market, uses an A18 Pro processor with 8GB RAM.

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Apple unveiled the MacBook Neo on Wednesday, its cheapest laptop starting at $599 ($499 with education discount), undercutting the M5 MacBook Air by $500. Featuring an iPhone-derived A18 Pro chip and compact design, it targets students and casual users competing with Chromebooks and budget Windows PCs, though with feature trade-offs. Preorders are live, shipping March 11.

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