PS6, Next-Gen Xbox Launches Could Face Delays Amid Increasing Memory Costs
The launch timelines of Sony’s PlayStation 6 (PS6) and the next-generation Xbox could reportedly face delays, as rising RAM and memory component costs begin to impact console development and manufacturing plans. According to industry sources, the growing expense of advanced memory technologies is becoming a key challenge for console makers planning their next hardware cycle.
Modern gaming consoles rely heavily on high-speed RAM to deliver features such as ray tracing, higher frame rates, faster load times, and AI-enhanced graphics. However, the global memory market has been under pressure due to increasing demand from AI servers, data centres, smartphones, and PCs, all of which compete for the same advanced DRAM and memory supply. This surge in demand has reportedly driven up costs, affecting long-term hardware planning.
For Sony and Microsoft, memory pricing plays a critical role in determining both console performance targets and retail pricing. If RAM costs remain high, manufacturers may be forced to make tough decisions—either absorb the increased costs, raise console prices, or delay launches to wait for more favourable market conditions. None of these options are ideal, especially in a market where affordability is key to mass adoption.
Reports suggest that both companies are closely monitoring the situation before finalising specifications for their next consoles. Delaying the launch could allow time for memory prices to stabilise, enabling better cost control and more competitive pricing at release. It could also provide room to refine hardware designs and optimise performance without compromising on key features.
Another factor is the growing expectation for next-gen consoles to support AI-driven gameplay enhancements, advanced graphics engines, and seamless cross-platform experiences. These features demand more memory bandwidth and capacity, further increasing reliance on expensive RAM solutions.
While Sony and Microsoft have not officially commented on potential delays, analysts believe that any shift in launch timelines would likely be strategic rather than reactive. Both companies are keen to avoid launching consoles at higher prices that could limit adoption, particularly in price-sensitive markets.
If delays do occur, current-generation consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S may receive extended support, with continued software updates, game releases, and mid-cycle hardware refreshes to bridge the gap.
As the global memory market evolves, the final launch timelines for the PS6 and next-gen Xbox will depend heavily on RAM availability, cost trends, and broader semiconductor supply conditions. For now, gamers may need to wait a little longer before the next major console leap becomes a reality.