Tech prices are rising, but support is out there if you’re struggling to keep up

You may have seen warnings that the cost of technology is set to rise soon. It’s not just because devices are getting smarter, it’s largely down to the soaring cost of the parts inside them.

Some of the biggest tech manufacturers, including Dell, Microsoft and Samsung, have already raised prices and pulled some of their cheaper models. That means finding a decent laptop or phone for under £400 is likely to get harder.

Why are prices going up?

A big part of the problem is something the tech world is calling ‘RAMageddon’.

This refers to a shortage of memory chips, driven by the rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI).

AI relies on massive data centres that need large amounts of high-end memory. As companies invest heavily in AI, these data centres are using up not just today’s supply of memory chips, but also much of the production capacity for years ahead.

That creates a knock-on effect:

memory becomes scarce and more expensive

• other electronic components rise in price too
• everyday devices like laptops and phones cost more to make

On top of that:

• manufacturers are focusing on producing high-end chips for AI, reducing supply of cheaper components
• flash storage (used in SSDs) is limited for the same reason
• lower-end processors are harder to source

All of this pushes up prices for the devices you buy.

Struggling to afford new tech? Here’s where you can get help

If you’re finding it hard to stay connected, there is support available.

National Device Bank

The National Device Bank is powered by Good Things Foundation and provides free laptops, phones and tablets if you don’t currently have access to a device.

Little Lives UK

The children’s charity Little Lives UK donates tablets and laptops to schools and organisations. They can provide up to 25 devices per request.

Wavelength

The fighting loneliness charity Wavelength offers free TVs, radios, and tablets if you’re experiencing loneliness and can’t afford them.

Solidaritech

Solidaritech repurposes unwanted laptops, desktops, tablets and smartphones, and passes them onto asylum seekers and refugees to help with studies and settling into life in the UK.

Family Fund

The disabled children’s charity Family Fund provides computer and tablet grants to support disabled, or seriously ill, children.

Consider buying pre-loved

If you’re trying to stretch your budget, second-hand tech can be a smart option.

More people, especially younger buyers, are choosing pre-loved smartphones and laptops to save money.

You can find good deals on platforms like:

• Vinted, which is popular for clothing, but also some tech
• Facebook Marketplace is great for local deals
• eBay offers a wide range at tech, at auctions and at fixed prices

Buying used can often get you much better value for your money.

You might also qualify for free mobile data

If staying connected is a struggle, you may be able to get free data, texts and minutes through the National Databank.

This scheme is run by O2 in partnership with Good Things Foundation to support people facing ‘data poverty’.

You may be eligible if you:

• are aged 18 or over
• are on a low income
• have limited or no internet access at home or on the go
• can’t afford your current mobile plan

How to access it:

You’ll need to visit a participating organisation, such as:

• Virgin Media O2
• Vodafone
• Three
• local community organisations offering the service

You can also search online for a National Databank location near you.

Tech might be getting more expensive, but you still have options. Whether it’s accessing support schemes, choosing refurbished devices, or finding better deals online, there are ways to stay connected without overspending.