Intel plans another CPU price boost this year

Intel is planning another increase in CPU prices in the coming months. A report from the Chinese market research firm Minutes Logic Society shows that this will be the third price hike this year. Intel had already raised CPU prices in February and March, making CPUs about 30% more expensive than in 2025.

Why Prices Are Rising

The main reason is the huge demand for AI data centres, which need a lot of CPUs. Manufacturers like Intel and AMD cannot keep up with this demand. To manage the situation, Intel is raising prices to slow down purchases.

The AI boom is also affecting other computer parts. RAM and GPU prices have gone up over the last year. Companies like Samsung increased component costs recently, and NVIDIA is delaying its new consumer GPU to focus on AI products.

Impact on Consumers

Software developers are now using cloud-based AI tools locally, which needs more powerful CPUs. This increases the demand for high-end laptops, and people are paying more for better performance. For example, Lenovo recently raised the prices of its handheld devices by nearly 50%.

Gamers Face Higher Costs

PC gamers will feel the impact too. Building new systems or upgrading old ones will be more expensive, and supply problems may continue beyond 2026. The gap between budget and premium hardware will grow.

Console prices are rising as well. Sony increased the price of the PlayStation 5, and Nintendo changed prices for its games. Analysts warn that future consoles, like the PlayStation 6 and Microsoft Project Helix, could cost over $1,000. With affordable hardware becoming rare, gamers may start switching to cloud gaming more often.