The launch of the next generation of gaming consoles could be delayed until 2027–2028. Console manufacturers are seriously considering this option. The reason is the unprecedented increase in the cost of RAM.
According to sources, it is almost impossible to produce new consoles at an affordable price in the current conditions. Therefore, the main players in the market are considering taking a wait-and-see approach: it is likely that in a few years, memory chip manufacturers will be able to increase their production capacity and meet the demand for both the artificial intelligence sector and consumer electronics.
At the same time, the impact of the price increase will not bypass the current generation of consoles. The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series went on sale during the COVID-19 pandemic and faced a semiconductor crisis. Now, the end of the generation coincides with a new technological crisis. As a result, the price of even consoles released 5 years ago continues to rise.
The Steam Deck line of models has reportedly been effectively halted amid the memory crisis, while the success of Valve's upcoming Steam Machine console is in doubt. Even the release date and price of this console have not yet been announced.
