Core Viewpoint - The computer hardware sector is facing significant challenges due to rising memory and storage costs, which have increased by approximately 40% to 70% from Q1 to Q4 of 2025, impacting consumer prices and product configurations [1] Group 1: Market Impact - Dell Technologies (DELL.US) shares fell over 4%, while HP (HPQ.US) shares dropped more than 3% amid concerns over rising costs [1] - The shortage of standard DDR memory for laptops and desktops is attributed to manufacturers prioritizing higher-margin server-grade DRAM and high-bandwidth memory (HBM) for AI infrastructure [1] Group 2: Future Projections - PC manufacturers warn that 2026 may present significant challenges for consumers, not due to CPU or GPU shortages, but because of a memory shortage crisis that will increase bill of materials costs [1] - IDC research manager Jitesh Ubrani forecasts a potential 9% decline in PC shipments in 2026, bringing total shipments to approximately 260 million units, slightly below 2024's estimated 263.3 million units and close to 2023's levels, which was one of the worst years in PC history [1]