Samsung · Meta · Tom's Hardware
Samsung and SK hynix warn AI-driven memory shortages could last until 2027 and beyond, as HBM demand explodes
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◎ Multiple-sources
In Samsung’s full earnings report released on April 30, 2026, the company’s memory chief Kim Jaejune warned that “significant shortages” across memory products are expected to continue through at least 2027.
Key facts
- Samsung’s semiconductor division posted 53.7 trillion won ($36.1 billion) in operating profit during the first quarter of 2026, accounting for roughly 94% of the company’s total quarterly profit
- In Samsung’s full earnings report released on April 30, 2026, the company’s memory chief Kim Jaejune warned that “significant shortages” across memory products are expected to continue
- According to the Korea Times, recent regulatory filings show that Samsung Electronics invested 465.4 billion won in its Xi’an memory chip plant in 2025, a 67.5% year-over-year increase
- Together with US-based Micron Technology, Samsung and SK hynix control well over 90% of the global DRAM market
Summary
Together with US-based Micron Technology, Samsung and SK hynix control well over 90% of the global DRAM market. The shortages are being driven largely by the need for artificial intelligence infrastructure. HBM has become critical for AI accelerators. While the shortage is driven primarily by HBM demand, its effects are beginning to spill over into the broader memory market.