ASUS ROG Ally X handheld prices in Japan rose 21.5% to 169,800 yen due to global RAM shortages fueled by AI data center demand. Other markets remain unchanged for now. Impacts include Steam Deck stockouts and potential Switch 2 price hikes.
Key Points
- 1.Japan price jumps from 139,800 to 169,800 yen (21.5%)
- 2.Driven by AI data centers spiking RAM module prices several-fold
- 3.Steam Deck OLED shortages; Nintendo eyes Switch 2 price rise; MS/Sony delay next-gen consoles
Impact Analysis
AI infrastructure boom disrupts gaming hardware supply chains with soaring memory costs. Developers face higher prices for high-RAM devices. Signals sustained inflation in AI server components.
Technical Details
Global RAM prices multiplied due to massive AI training needs. Gaming handhelds like Ally X hit hard as manufacturers scramble. Broader effects on consoles from major firms.