AI-driven memory chip shortage causes first PC shipment decline in nine quarters
PC shipments fell 5% year-over-year in Q2 2026 to 68.2 million units, marking the first decline after nine consecutive quarters of growth. The drop is attributed to an AI-driven memory chip shortage (DRAM drought) that has raised component costs, priced budget PCs out of the market, and threatens smaller suppliers with potential business failure if the situation persists, according to IDC.
Key quotes
The memory chip crisis caused PC shipments to fall by 5 percent from last year in Q2 2026 as vendors struggled to secure supplies
IDC warns smaller suppliers may be forced out of business if the situation continues
Rising component costs have already priced budget PCs out of existence
This was the first decline after nine consecutive quarters of growth, with persistent memory
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