The micrometre is a unit of length in the International System of Units (SI) equalling 10−6 metre ; that is, one millionth of a metre. It is also known as the micron.
Source: Wikipedia
AI-driven memory demand has pushed RAM and GPU prices to record highs, making 2026 the worst year in recent memory to build or buy a gaming PC. But for players who already own capable hardware, this year is shaping up to be surprisingly strong — major releases are running well on older systems, and developers are optimizing for the hardware people actually have.
Microsoft and Apple's recent price hikes for Xbox consoles, iPads, and Macs are just the beginning, as Big Tech warns of an impending surge in gaming hardware costs due to component shortages. Expect next-gen consoles from Microsoft and potentially Sony to launch at record-high prices. The gaming industry braces for a significant price increase in the coming years.
Valve has expressed interest in making the Steam Machine more affordable, citing its goal to strengthen the connection between gamers and their games. However, due to global component shortages and historically high prices, a price drop is not anticipated anytime soon. The Steam Machine currently starts at $1,049 for its 512GB model.
Once all are operational, it's claimed that the firm's wafer output will more than double, which could potentially make it one of the world's largest makers of
DDR4 and DDR5 prices have dropped slightly, but the RAM market remains troubled with high demand and limited supply.
Dell's CEO forecasts AI memory demand to soar 625 times by 2028, raising concerns about supply and costs in the tech industry.
Short supply of GDDR6X VRAM could lead Nvidia to launch a GeForce RTX 4070 variant with slower, cheaper GDDR6, potentially reducing the price by $30 or more.