Technology

Memory makers are set to earn $551 billion from the AI boom, twice as much as contract chip manufacturers — forecasts suggest that 2026 revenue will skyrocket thanks to data center demand

Source

Tom's Hardware

Published

Feb 10, 2026

TL;DR

AI Generated

Memory makers are projected to earn $551 billion from the AI boom, surpassing contract chip manufacturers, with revenue expected to skyrocket in 2026 due to data center demand. TrendForce estimates that memory makers will benefit the most from the AI infrastructure buildout, leading to shortages and price increases across the industry. The AI supercycle is reshaping the semiconductor industry, with memory revenue outpacing contract chip production. Memory prices are rising due to increased demand for specific types of memory, creating favorable conditions for memory makers to capitalize on the market. The foundry industry, which operates under long-term agreements, is experiencing slower revenue growth compared to memory vendors amid the AI supercycle.

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