Rising RAM Prices May Delay PlayStation 6 and Next-Gen Xbox Launch
Written by Bosy Abdelkader
Sony and Microsoft are reportedly reconsidering the launch timelines for their next-generation gaming consoles, PlayStation 6 and the new Xbox, amid soaring global RAM prices and supply constraints. While earlier leaks suggested a 2027 release window, a new report indicates the companies may push the launch back to between 2027 and 2028.
According to a report by Insider Gaming, the rapid expansion of AI data centers— which require vast amounts of high-performance memory— has led to a global shortage of RAM, driving prices sharply higher. This shortage is now affecting the consumer electronics market, including gaming hardware.
Sources cited in the report say that RAM availability and pricing have become a significant concern for platform holders like Sony and Microsoft. Traditionally, gaming consoles are sold at slim margins or even at a loss, with profits generated later through games, subscriptions, and digital services. However, ongoing economic pressures and rising component costs have already led to multiple price increases for current-generation consoles.
Both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S/X have seen price hikes since their launch in 2020. The disk versions of the PS5 and Xbox Series X now retail at around $550 and $650 respectively in the US, up from their original $499.99 price point.
With next-gen hardware expected to be even more powerful—and more expensive to manufacture—Sony and Microsoft may opt to delay their launches to allow memory prices to stabilize and supply chains to improve. The delay would also give RAM manufacturers time to expand infrastructure and meet growing demand.
Despite the uncertainty, development of PS6 and the next Xbox is well underway. Previous leaks have suggested Sony is targeting a 2027 launch unless unexpected delays occur. Microsoft, for its part, has hinted that its next Xbox will deliver a “premium, high-performance experience” and could function as a hybrid Windows-based device, blending PC and console features.
