Samsung and SK Hynix Raise Mobile DRAM Prices 70-83% in Q2 2026

Samsung and SK Hynix are implementing significant price increases for mobile DRAM products in the second quarter of 2026. Contract prices for LPDDR4X and LPDDR5X memory chips are rising sharply across the global market. The industry is witnessing a substantial shift in component costs that directly impacts smartphone manufacturing.

Samsung pursues aggressive pricing while SK Hynix adopts a more moderate gradual approach

TrendForce reports that LPDDR4X average selling prices will increase by 70 to 75 percent quarter-over-quarter. LPDDR5X prices are projected to rise even higher, with increases ranging from 78 to 83 percent. Samsung is pursuing an aggressive pricing strategy characterized by a one-time significant price jump. SK Hynix is adopting a more moderate approach with gradual price adjustments.

Market data indicates that a 64Gb or 8GB LPDDR4X chip is now priced at 100 USD (about $100). This sharp rise in memory costs places severe financial pressure on smartphone manufacturers. Industry observers note that memory components may soon account for one-third of total smartphone production costs.

CounterPoint data reveals that global smartphone shipments declined by 6 percent year-over-year in the first quarter of 2026. Android vendors experienced declines between 2 and 20 percent, while Apple saw a 5 percent growth. Multiple agencies predict full-year smartphone sales could drop by 10 to 15 percent as these component costs persist.

Analysts from TrendForce and China Flash Market highlight that there are no signs the memory price hike is stopping. The aggressive stance taken by Samsung is expected to hurt smartphone manufacturers significantly. The market remains focused on how these rising hardware costs will affect device pricing and consumer demand.