tech

Gadget prices have fallen for decades. Then AI happened.

Updated on: June 26, 2026 / 4:11 PM EDT / CBS News

Gadget prices have fallen for decades. Then AI happened.

TL;DR

  • The artificial intelligence boom is causing a global shortage of memory and storage chips.
  • This shortage is driving up prices for consumer electronics like computers, video game consoles, iPads, and MacBooks.
  • Companies like Apple and Microsoft are increasing prices to offset rising component costs.
  • The cost of personal electronics has generally fallen since the 1980s, making these price hikes unusual.
  • Chip manufacturers are prioritizing production for AI data centers over consumer devices.
  • Expanding chip production capacity is a slow and expensive process, with new facilities costing billions and taking years to build.
  • The chip shortage is predicted to last at least through 2027.
  • Consumers are advised to buy electronic devices now before prices rise further.