AI is driving computer prices sky high. Here's how

The briefing

Computer hardware prices have spiked globally as AI data centers consume the DRAM memory that phones, laptops and consoles also need. Entry-level custom builds that cost $1,000 to $1,300 now exceed $2,000, and memory kits that sold for $80 to $100 last year have tripled. With only three major manufacturers prioritizing AI customers and new memory factories taking five to seven years to build, experts expect prices to stay elevated for years.