Memory chips

Global smartphone shipments are projected to decline by 2.1% in 2026, while average selling prices are expected to rise by 6.9%. This shift is driven by surging demand for memory chips, essential for AI technologies, which has led to component shortages and increased manufacturing costs. Entry-level phones are seeing significant bill of materials cost hikes, with further price increases anticipated. Larger players like Apple and Samsung are better positioned, while smaller manufacturers may struggle, potentially leading to component downgrades or a push towards premium models.

Samsung Electronics reported a strong Q3 rebound driven by surging demand for memory chips used in AI applications. Operating profit increased 32.9% year-over-year, exceeding analyst expectations. The chip business saw a tenfold increase in operating profit compared to the previous quarter. Samsung regained its position as the leading memory market player and anticipates continued growth in AI chip demand, focusing on mass production of HBM4 in 2026. The Mobile eXperience division also demonstrated positive growth fueled by flagship smartphone sales.

SK Hynix announced it’s ready for mass production of its HBM4 chips, crucial for AI applications and potentially used in Nvidia’s next-gen architecture. HBM4 boasts double the bandwidth and 40% better power efficiency than its predecessor. This move solidifies SK Hynix’s lead over competitors like Samsung and Micron in the high-bandwidth memory market. Experts predict SK Hynix could hold 50% of the HBM market by 2026. The announcement boosted SK Hynix shares, reflecting investor confidence in its AI-driven strategy. Strong HBM demand contributed to record profits.