Memory Chip Orders for 2027 and 2028 Could Exceed Available Capacity

Memory chip orders for 2027 and 2028 could exceed production capacity, extending a shortage that has driven up prices for chips used in AI data centers.

Manufacturers can fill an estimated 80% to 85% of memory chip orders in 2026. That share could fall to about 80% in 2027, leaving more demand beyond available output.

Demand for custom memory adds to the pressure. During a visit to South Korea, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman asked SK hynix and Samsung Electronics for high-bandwidth memory and other tailored products covering 2027 through 2030. The requested volume is estimated to exceed what the two companies could supply.

The capacity estimates add detail to earlier coverage of 2027 memory supply agreements, which described demand exceeding planned supply as customers negotiated volumes and price ranges.

The wider shortage is expected to persist even if some U.S. data center projects are delayed or revised.