Record highs in memory prices indicate a clear impact on the new generation of gaming consoles. While some are preparing to wait for the possible PS6 in 2027, and Microsoft continues to cooperate with AMD to develop a new Xbox, Insider Gaming’s Tom Henderson confirms that discussions about postponing the launch have already begun.
After initial speculation surfaced in a previous podcast, the possibility of a change in the upcoming PS6 and Xbox launch dates has now become more real. According to Henderson, the current situation has led companies to discuss the idea of postponing the new generation beyond the planned launch window between 2027 and 2028.
In light of these challenges, companies are looking for other options. Although the prices of upcoming devices may rise, there are still hopes that memory prices will moderate soon.
Major companies like Samsung and SK Hynix may ramp up DRAM production to ease the shortage, but they are currently focused on meeting the needs of growing AI data centers.
The new generation of Xbox and PS6 is expected to rely on GDDR7 memory, the same class used in modern graphics cards. The VRAM and DDR5 market is also affected by tight supply, which increases the overall cost of components. Expectations indicate that the next Xbox may resemble a Windows-based gaming computer, which may increase its final cost.
With the decline in gaming console sales in the United States last November, there is increasing talk about extending the life of the PS5 and Xbox Series
Although reducing the prices of existing devices may seem like a logical solution, rising component costs make this option difficult. According to Moore’s Law Is Dead leaks, Microsoft may have to raise the prices of its current devices instead of lowering them.
The impact of the memory crisis also extends to Valve’s Steam Machine launch plans, as recent leaks indicate that the device may be postponed from its expected date in the first quarter of 2026 due to the rise in DDR5 prices.
