Gadget prices have fallen for decades. Then AI happened.

The surge in demand for AI data centers has created a worldwide shortage of memory chips, causing a spike in the prices of personal electronics like smartphones and laptops. This shift underscores the significant impact of AI on the tech industry, as companies like Apple and Microsoft invest heavily in AI infrastructure. The rising costs highlight a potential long-term trend where artificial intelligence advancements could disrupt traditional consumer electronics markets, reshaping both tech development and consumer affordability.