IDC warns PC market could shrink up to 9% in 2026 due to skyrocketing RAM pricing — even moderate forecast hits 5% drop as AI-driven shortages slam into PC market

IDC warns that the PC market could shrink by up to 9% in 2026 due to skyrocketing RAM pricing, with even a moderate scenario predicting a 5% drop as AI-driven shortages impact the market. The global memory shortage, accelerated by AI infrastructure demand, has intensified beyond IDC's initial forecasts. This scarcity is leading to potential price hikes of up to 8% for PCs in 2026. Larger OEMs like Dell and Lenovo may fare better than smaller vendors, but the overall market is expected to contract, especially impacting gaming PCs. The industry's push towards AI PCs is facing challenges as memory shortages and price increases complicate consumer hardware markets.