PS6 Launch Timeline Pushed to 2028 or 2029: Report Claims Sony Hit by Memory Chip Issues

The global memory chip crisis is now reshaping launch plans for major gaming consoles and phones. Sony is reportedly weighing a delay for its next PlayStation generation to 2028 or even 2029. Nintendo is also said to be reviewing pricing for its device in 2026, highlighting broad strain.

This pressure is closely linked to a steep rise in DRAM costs, especially a key type used widely in electronics. According to the Bloomberg report, prices for that DRAM segment jumped about 75% between December and January. Such a sharp move is forcing device makers to rethink launch timelines and pricing power.

Memory Crisis Hits Smartphones

The memory crisis is also hurting smartphone makers, especially Chinese brands chasing volume sales. Jiemian reported that Xiaomi, OPPO, and Shenzhen Transsion Holdings Co. are trimming shipment targets for 2026. OPPO has allegedly cut its forecast by up to 20%, suggesting weaker availability and tighter cost margins in the mass-market Android segment.

Low-end smartphones appear most exposed as memory prices climb faster than other components. DRAM could soon make up as much as 30% of the bill of materials for budget models, up from about 10% in early 2025. Cheaper devices, which lack strong pricing flexibility, may face feature compromises or thinner profits.

Memory Crisis and AI-driven Demand for HBM

The current memory crisis is unfolding while leading suppliers redirect resources toward high-bandwidth memory for AI chips. Samsung, Micron, and SK Hynix have shifted a larger share of capacity to HBM used in accelerators. TrendForce expects demand for these AI-focused memory products to jump around 70% year-on-year in 2026 alone.

The strain on traditional DRAM supplies is being amplified by record investment from large technology groups. Alphabet has announced capital expenditure plans of about $185 billion (Rs. 16.79 lakh crore approx.) this year. Amazon has signalled spending of around $200 billion (Rs. 18.16 lakh crore approx.), which Bloomberg notes is higher than any previous company spending plan.

Memory Crisis Drives Wider Supply Chain Disruption

Analysts describe the memory crisis as one of the "biggest supply chain disruptions" we've seen. The shock is spreading across electronics, telecom, and automotive industries through 2026 as inventories adjust. Companies in these sectors must manage higher component costs while also planning for uncertain chip availability.

The combination of redirected memory capacity, surging AI investment, and higher DRAM prices is reshaping hardware plans. From delayed consoles at Sony to forecast cuts at OPPO, the memory chip crunch is influencing strategy across devices. Consumers may face higher prices, constrained choice, or slower hardware refresh cycles during this period.