Google Confirms Pixel 11 Will Get a Price Hike: “RAMageddon” Is to Blame

Google has essentially confirmed that the Pixel 11 will see a price increase, citing the ongoing industry-wide “RAMageddon” as the primary driver. The term refers to a global surge in RAM costs attributed to supply chain constraints, increased demand from AI and data center sectors, and semiconductor shortages that are expected to persist into 2026. While Google has not provided specific pricing figures, internal documents and public statements from executives indicate that the rising cost of components—particularly memory chips—will inevitably be passed on to consumers. This marks a notable shift for the Pixel line, which has historically aimed to balance premium features with competitive pricing. As the tech community braces for higher entry points, experts suggest that 2026 may see flagship smartphones become significantly more expensive across all major brands, not just Google. The confirmed price hike for the Pixel 11 underscores a broader trend in the industry: the era of the affordable premium phone may be drawing to a close, at least for high-end Android devices sporting the latest memory and AI capabilities.

via The Verge