If you’ve been holding out for the PS6 or the next-gen Xbox, you might want to get comfortable with your current console. A perfect storm of AI demand and memory shortages could push back the release of Sony and Microsoft’s next-generation systems—or make them way more expensive than anyone wants.
What’s Going On With RAM Prices?
Here’s the deal: RAM prices have gone absolutely bonkers lately, and it’s all thanks to artificial intelligence.
Back in October 2025, two major RAM manufacturers made a big decision—they agreed to dedicate a huge chunk of their memory production to an OpenAI data center project. That move squeezed the available supply for everyone else, and prices went through the roof. We’re talking more than triple the cost for some consumer RAM.
Since then, more memory makers have followed suit, shifting focus away from gaming and consumer tech to cash in on the AI boom. And now? Console manufacturers are starting to sweat.
How the RAM Shortage Could Delay the PS6 and Next Xbox
According to a report from Insider Gaming, both Sony and Microsoft are seriously considering whether to delay their next-gen consoles because of this RAM crisis.
While consoles use specialized memory that’s different from what you’d find in gaming PCs, they still need RAM—and they get it from the same small group of suppliers. With so much production now going toward AI applications, there’s a real risk of production bottlenecks and skyrocketing costs.
Here’s the timeline issue:
- Both the PS6 and next-gen Xbox are rumored to be targeting a 2027 launch
- A recent Micron report suggests the RAM shortage could last beyond 2026
- Building new manufacturing facilities (cleanrooms) takes time, so relief won’t come quickly
If Sony and Microsoft plan to start manufacturing in early 2027 (as rumors suggest), they could be staring down a supply crunch right when they need RAM the most.
Why Console Companies Might Choose to Wait
Normally, console makers sell their hardware at a loss or break-even and make up the difference through game sales. But if RAM costs get too high, that strategy falls apart.
Here’s what Sony and Microsoft are weighing:
- Option 1: Launch on time, raise prices — Risk scaring away customers in an already struggling market
- Option 2: Delay launch, wait for prices to stabilize — Keep costs reasonable and avoid a PR disaster
The second option is looking pretty attractive right now, especially considering that video game hardware sales hit a 30-year low in November 2025 (even with the Switch 2 selling like hotcakes). Gamers are already feeling the pinch from price hikes across the industry. Another big jump in console costs? That could be a dealbreaker.
What This Means for Gamers
Neither Sony nor Microsoft has officially commented on how the RAM crisis might affect their plans. But reading between the lines, here’s what could happen:
Possible scenarios:
- ✅ Release delay past 2027 to wait out the shortage
- ✅ Price increase if they launch on schedule
- ✅ Extended current-gen lifespan with more PS5/Xbox Series X support
There might actually be a silver lining here. If the PS6 and next Xbox get delayed, we could see developers squeeze even more out of the current generation. More optimization, more innovative games, and a longer shelf life for the hardware you already own.
The Bottom Line on Next-Gen Console Delays
The RAM shortage caused by AI demand is a real problem, and it’s not going away anytime soon. With memory prices still soaring and no relief expected until at least late 2026, Sony and Microsoft have tough decisions ahead.
For now, the future of the PlayStation 6 and next-gen Xbox is up in the air. Whether we see delays, price hikes, or both, one thing’s clear: don’t expect business as usual when it comes to the next console generation.
Related reads you might like:
