Core Viewpoint - The storage sector is experiencing a price surge driven by increased demand and supply constraints, particularly in DRAM products, with significant price hikes reported by major manufacturers like Samsung and Micron [1][2][3]. Price Increases - Major storage manufacturers have initiated a price increase, with SanDisk raising prices by over 10%, Samsung by 30%, and Micron by 20% to 30% [1]. - The DRAM price index has risen approximately 72% in less than six months, with expectations for continued price increases through the end of the year [3]. Supply Chain Dynamics - Adata has ceased quoting DDR4 prices and is prioritizing DDR5 and NAND flash supply to key customers, indicating a shift in supply strategy due to rising costs [2]. - Xiaomi reported a decline in smartphone gross margins from 12.1% to 11.5% year-over-year, attributing this to unexpected increases in memory market prices [2]. Market Trends - The transition from DDR4 to DDR5 is accelerating as the price gap narrows, with DDR5 expected to see increased adoption in the latter half of the year [5]. - The demand for high-bandwidth memory (HBM) driven by AI applications is contributing to the tightening supply of consumer-grade DRAM [3][4]. Company Strategies - Companies like Baiwei Storage and Demingli are adjusting inventory strategies based on market conditions and demand forecasts, indicating a proactive approach to managing supply chain challenges [4]. - Demingli has noted that the storage price recovery is supported by seasonal demand and emerging applications, with expectations for continued price increases in Q4 [4].