According to a report, a shortage in RAM may result in another price hike for Xbox consoles

Microsoft may be on the verge of raising the prices of its Xbox consoles once again due to challenges in RAM supply.

A report from Moore's Law is Dead on YouTube, noticed by The Game Post, indicates that Microsoft has cautioned its partners about a potential price increase for Xbox consoles. The shortage of RAM, largely driven by an expanding number of AI-supporting data centers, is the main factor influencing this possible price hike.

The growing demand for RAM is evident as OpenAI has recently secured a significant agreement with Samsung and SK Hynix to produce 900,000 RAM wafer starts every month.

Tom from Moore’s Law is Dead commented, “Microsoft didn't anticipate this issue, it seems. Xbox console availability or prices could be affected soon as my sources say Microsoft sales reps have alerted them of potential impacts on the Xbox Series consoles imminently.”

Unlike Microsoft, Sony appears to have anticipated the shortage, according to Tom. He stated, “Sony planned in advance, acquiring substantial RAM quantities when prices were low, ensuring sufficient GDDR6 supplies for upcoming months. This foresight might explain why Sony is offering PlayStation 5 discounts for Black Friday.”

Tom added, “Sony's price cuts are not due to poor sales or drastic tactics. They’ve managed their RAM needs well, at least in the short to mid-term, so they're not pressing over potential shortages.”

If Microsoft's price adjustments occur, it would mark the third hike in 2025. In May, the company raised the Xbox Series X price by $100 and added $80 to the Series X cost. There was also another price increase for U.S. customers in September.

Additionally, gamers were displeased when Microsoft raised the prices of some Xbox Game Pass subscriptions.

GamesIndustry.biz has contacted Microsoft for further comment.