AI is reshaping more than software — it's putting intense pressure on the global semiconductor supply chain. In this special cross-post from Data & Dimensions, The Decisive brings you a timely conversation on how surging demand for AI infrastructure is driving a shortage of DRAM memory, raising costs across consumer technology, and forcing companies to rethink production, pricing, and inventory strategy.

Host Neil Barbour speaks with Chris Rogers, Head of Supply Chain Research at S&P Global Market Intelligence, about the "DRAMageddon" unfolding across markets — from AI data centers and gaming hardware to smartphones, VR headsets, consoles, tariffs, and global trade.

Key takeaways include:

• How AI accelerators are absorbing semiconductor capacity and pushing DRAM prices higher
• Why consumer electronics — including smartphones, VR headsets, and gaming consoles — are facing rising memory costs and supply constraints
• What the DRAM shortage means for the gaming market ahead of major launches like Grand Theft Auto VI
• How companies are shifting hardware production from mainland China to Vietnam amid tariff uncertainty
• Why inflation, component shortages, and macroeconomic pressures could delay the next generation of consoles until 2028
• What today's memory squeeze reveals about the broader intersection of AI, supply chains, global trade, and technology strategy

For listeners of The Decisive, this episode offers a sharp look at how disruption moves through industries in real time — turning a technical bottleneck in semiconductor memory into a wider story about pricing power, production strategy, and the future of consumer technology.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Electronics Supply Chain Outlook
• The Decisive | Season 6 Ep.2 - How Supply Constraints Are Defining Electronics Pricing
• Video game profitability tracker: Positive, if precarious, margin trends in 2025

For S&P Global subscribers (login required):

• Parallel processes: Rising component costs bifurcate sector, limit PC manufacturing volumes
• More than war: Q2 2026 corporate supply chain strategy outlook

Credits:

• Hosts: Neil Barbour
• Guest: Chris Rogers
• Produced By: Neil Barbour, Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Neil Barbour, Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun