The Neverending Chip Shortage
It's August 2026 and the tech industry is still hurting from a chip shortage that is not slated to end any time soon. It's due to a mix of issues from manufacturing pivots due to AI and ongoing geopolitical tensions. While the demand for electronics like laptops and mobile phones hasn't changed much, availability has.
Most semiconductor manufacturing is concentrated in a few countries, making the supply chain fragile. Meanwhile, the growing need for chips in everything from smartphones to AI-powered devices has outpaced production capacity. Although new chip factories have been built, it takes years to fully ramp up production and countries like the US have thrown up roadblocks and tariffs that have affected pricing.
Most importantly, manufacturers are seeking the biggest payouts and those are coming from AI vendors and datacenter vendors.,
Delays in Getting Your Devices
The chip shortage has caused frustrating delays for anyone waiting for a new laptop or phone. If your company needs a new server, prices have doubled and tripled in the last year.
Manufacturers often prioritize large orders from big companies, leaving smaller retailers and individual buyers with limited stock or long waitlists. Popular models frequently sell out, forcing consumers to choose alternatives or wait months.
If there is a bright spot here, it's for the environment, as more businesses are opting for refurbished and used equipment, which inadvertently cuts down on ewaste.
What's Next?
Delay, if you can, or plan well ahead, as prices in 2026 are not expected to decrease. We recommend lead times of two to three months for new equipment purchases. Prices are also extremely high, so you may need to adjust your budgets accordingly.
Stock is low on many items too, so if you see what you're looking for now, at the right price, don't flinch.
Even upgrades and repair costs have shot up, so don't forget to check the refurb sections.
