Global PC and Smartphone Markets Hit by 2026 Chip Shortage Price Hikes

Rising costs for PC components are set to push motherboard prices up by at least 50% in the third quarter of 2026. The increase is driven by higher prices for printed‑circuit boards, copper, capacitors and other chips needed for AI data‑center hardware. Manufacturers of motherboards, which have already seen weak demand in the DIY market, plan to adjust distribution prices to protect margins.

At the same time, the worldwide smartphone market recorded its lowest shipment level in 13 years during the second quarter of 2026, falling 11% year‑on‑year. A prolonged shortage of DRAM and NAND memory has raised production costs and dampened consumer demand. Companies are shifting focus toward premium models; Samsung Electronics reclaimed the top global share with 24% of shipments, while Apple continued its upward trend. Analysts at Counterpoint Research warn that the memory shortage will likely persist into the second half of 2026 and beyond, keeping prices high and market recovery uncertain.