PS6 and Xbox Project Helix Face Memory Shortage Through 2028

The global RAM shortage, which is already affecting electronics and console pricing, could last until at least 2028, creating challenges for the future PS6 and Xbox Project Helix.

Representatives from Micron and Samsung warn that a return to normal prices should not be expected anytime soon, as contracts for 2027 are already being signed at higher rates. The main reason is the artificial intelligence boom, which has data centers and companies training language models consuming massive amounts of HBM and server DRAM.

Memory manufacturers are shifting production capacity toward more lucrative corporate orders. Samsung expects that in 2027, HBM will account for about 30% of all DRAM manufacturer silicon wafers, compared to 20% previously.

Micron’s new plants will not become operational until 2028 at the earliest, and reaching full capacity will take additional months. Meanwhile, more than 75% of the company’s planned production for 2027 is already sold out.

The problem also affects regular consumers, as PCs and current-generation PS5 and Xbox Series X|S consoles have become more expensive, while manufacturers increasingly offer weaker memory configurations for higher prices.