Скачать или смотреть Smartphone prices surge in China as memory chip supply chain costs bite driven by AI boom

The buzz surrounding a "2026 universal price hike" for smartphones is reaching a fever pitch. Driven by skyrocketing costs of core components—particularly memory chips—the price surge is beginning to ripple across major brands and price segments.

A recent investigation across Shanghai’s flagship stores, digital distributors, and second-hand markets reveals a "tiered" price reaction. While official brand stores remain stable for now, the broader market is already shifting.

In multi-brand retail malls, the wind has clearly changed. The once-common "300 to 500 yuan discounts" and promotional giveaways have largely disappeared. Many popular models have returned to their official suggested retail prices as brands tighten their belts.

"Due to fluctuations in upstream supply chain costs, brands have gradually reduced subsidies for distribution channels," one dealer told reporters. After stripping away store-level subsidies, the actual wholesale price of some models has risen significantly compared to last month, forcing retail prices upward.

The pre-owned market, known for its high price sensitivity, has been the first to hit the "boiling point." Data from multiple second-hand platforms show that transaction prices have climbed across the board over the past week. Mid-to-high-end flagship models released within the last year have seen the most prominent increases, averaging between 5% and 8%.

Industry analysts predict that while official flagship prices are holding steady for the moment, the upcoming wave of new releases in 2026 will likely see higher starting price points to offset the persistent pressure from component costs.

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