Framework Hikes Desktop PC Prices as RAM Shortage Persists The global semiconductor shortage has been wreaking havoc across various industries, and the personal computing market is no exception. In the latest development, Framework, a prominent manufacturer of modular and customizable desktop PCs, has announced a price increase for its flagship desktop offering, citing the ongoing supply chain challenges related to memory components. Just weeks after raising the prices of its RAM modules, Framework has now revealed that its desktop PC will see a hike in the starting price. The Framework Desktop with 32GB of RAM and an AMD Ryzen AI Max 385 chip will now cost $1,139, up from the previous $1,099 price tag. In a post on the company's social media platform, Framework explained the reasoning behind the decision, stating, "We held off on it for as long as we could, but we had to update our Framework Desktop pricing today to account for the massive increase in LPDDR5x pricing from our suppliers. As before, we're only adjusting prices enough to cover the increases in cost." The global semiconductor shortage, which has been ongoing for over two years, has had a significant impact on the availability and pricing of various computer components, including memory chips. The shortage has been driven by a combination of factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions, and an increase in demand for electronic devices as remote work and online learning became more prevalent. As a result, the prices of DRAM (dynamic random-access memory) and NAND flash memory, the two primary types of memory used in modern computers, have been on the rise. According to industry analysts, the cost of LPDDR5x memory, the type used in the Framework Desktop, has seen a particularly sharp increase in recent months. This price hike is not unique to Framework; many other PC manufacturers and system builders have been forced to adjust their pricing to account for the rising costs of memory and other components. The impact has been felt across the entire desktop PC market, with consumers facing higher prices for both pre-built and custom-built systems. The decision by Framework to pass on the increased memory costs to its customers is a reflection of the company's commitment to transparency and its efforts to maintain the affordability of its products. In the post, the company emphasized that it is "only adjusting prices enough to cover the increases in cost" and that it remains dedicated to providing high-quality, customizable PCs at a fair price. One of the key selling points of the Framework Desktop has been its modular design, which allows users to easily upgrade and replace individual components as needed. This approach aligns with the company's broader mission to empower consumers to take control of their technology and reduce e-waste. By making it easier to upgrade and repair their devices, Framework aims to extend the lifespan of its products and reduce the environmental impact of the electronics industry. The price increase for the Framework Desktop is a testament to the challenges that the PC industry is facing in the current climate. However, the company's transparency and commitment to its core values of modularity and sustainability may help mitigate the impact on its customer base. As the semiconductor shortage continues to linger, it remains to be seen how other PC manufacturers will respond. Some may choose to absorb the increased costs, while others may follow in Framework's footsteps and pass on the price hikes to consumers. Regardless, the impact on the overall desktop PC market is likely to be felt for the foreseeable future. In the meantime, consumers in the market for a new desktop PC may need to factor in the ongoing supply chain challenges and the potential for further price increases. As always, it's important to research and compare options to find the best value for their specific needs and budget.