PS6 and Next Xbox May Be Delayed as RAM Prices Surge, Raising Fears of Higher Console Costs
Sony and Microsoft are deep into the development of their next-generation consoles. These include the PlayStation 6 and the next Xbox. A new report suggests their launch plans could face delays. This is because global RAM prices continue to skyrocket.
According to multiple industry leaks, both companies are targeting a 2027 launch window for their next consoles. An Insider Gaming report suggests a change. The ongoing surge in memory costs could be an issue. Additionally, hardware availability concerns could push that timeline into 2028.
Global RAM Shortage Disrupts Consumer Hardware Market
The explosive growth of AI data centres, which consume enormous amounts of high-performance memory, has triggered a global RAM shortage.
With supply struggling to keep up, RAM prices have surged sharply, placing pressure on consumer electronics manufacturers.
Sources say that rising RAM costs have become a major concern for platform holders. This includes Sony and Microsoft. These costs are forcing them to reconsider the timing and pricing of their next consoles.
Next-Gen Consoles Likely to Cost More Than Ever
Traditionally, game consoles are sold using a subsidized model. Manufacturers accept hardware losses. They generate profits through software sales, subscriptions, and digital services.
That model is now under strain.
Over the past year, both PS5 and Xbox Series S/X have seen multiple price increases.
The PS5 and Xbox Series X originally launched at $499.99, but today their disc versions cost $550 and $650 respectively in the US.
Next-generation hardware is expected to be more powerful. It is also expected to be more expensive. Analysts now caution consumers. The PS6 and the next Xbox could launch with much higher prices than any previous console generation.
2027 Launch Under Review
According to the report, Sony and Microsoft are actively debating whether to proceed with a 2027 release. They are also considering delaying the launch to 2028. This delay would give RAM manufacturers more time to expand capacity and stabilise prices.
The next two years could also bring further price increases for current-gen consoles. This would add to the financial pressure on gamers worldwide.
What We Know About the Next Consoles
Leaks suggest:
- PS6 is planned for 2027 unless unexpected delays occur
- Next Xbox is described by Microsoft as a “very premium, very high-end curated experience”
- Microsoft’s next console is expected to be a Windows-based PC/console hybrid
Despite mounting speculation, neither company has officially confirmed their launch schedules.
A New Era of Expensive Gaming Hardware
AI infrastructure is reshaping global hardware markets. The gaming industry is entering an era where consoles may no longer be affordable mass-market devices. Instead, they might become high-end entertainment machines carrying premium price tags.
For gamers, the next generation may arrive later — and cost more — than anyone expected.
This article is part of our premium research series on global business and technology trends.