local
AI demand is jacking up prices for iPads, Nintendo Switches and other gadgets. What experts say you should do
By CNN Newsource at KVIA ABC-7
· July 13, 2026
· 4 min read
By Lisa Eadicicco, CNN
(CNN) — Thinking about buying a new laptop or game console anytime soon? Be prepared to pay up.
Point the finger at the AI boom. Data centers have led to a surge in demand for memory, a critical piece of computer hardware that’s needed to quickly process information.
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Key takeaway The shortage is expected to persist until at least 2028 as memory giants work to build new plants.
Why this matters in The El Paso
For El Paso consumers, the AI-driven surge in memory demand means that buying a new laptop or game console will come with a heftier price tag. Locals who rely on these devices for work, education, or entertainment will feel the pinch, particularly with prices expected to continue rising until at least 2028. The impact will be felt across various sectors, including education, where schools and students may struggle to afford the latest technology. El Paso's business community, which has been actively promoting the city's tech industry, may also need to reassess their strategies in light of the memory shortage and its effects on the market. As the city continues to grow and develop its tech sector, the memory shortage poses a challenge that will require creative solutions to mitigate its impact on local consumers and businesses.
About this story
Original reporting by KVIA ABC-7 . The El Paso surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KVIA ABC-7 . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 13, 2026 ·
Source: KVIA ABC-7 ·
Reading time: 4 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? By Lisa Eadicicco, CNN
(CNN) — Thinking about buying a new laptop or game console anytime soon? Be prepared to pay up.
Point the finger at the AI boom. Data centers have led to a surge in demand for memory, a critical piece of computer hardware that’s needed to quickly process information.
...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 13, 2026 by KVIA ABC-7 and curated for The El Paso readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by CNN Newsource at KVIA ABC-7. To learn more about how The El Paso selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The El Paso, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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