TL;DR

Google has verified that the Pixel 11 range will carry higher costs because of a sixfold rise in RAM prices fueled by AI data center needs

Google announced that its next Pixel 11 smartphones will carry elevated prices compared to prior models. The firm joins other leading device makers in transferring expenses from a worldwide memory shortfall that has pushed RAM costs to record levels. During a discussion with 9to5Google released on Thursday, Shakil Barkat, Google vice president of devices and services, noted the company had protected buyers from supply swings for as long as feasible, yet the financial picture has now changed substantially. All Pixel devices, along with the Pixel Watch, will undergo price shifts applied in stages to align with what Barkat described as current supply conditions.

Barkat referenced Morgan Stanley figures indicating that the price per gigabyte of RAM climbed from $2.80 in 2025 to $12 this year, marking an increase of about six times. For a top-tier handset equipped with 16 GB of RAM, this results in a parts cost rise from around $45 to nearly $192 per unit, based on the bank's review. The jump occurs as chip producers shift wafer output toward high-bandwidth memory for AI data centers, limiting availability for everyday gadgets.

Google plans to share exact pricing during its Made by Google event on August 12 in New York, though early retail listings have already signaled the likely changes. The entry-level Pixel 11 is projected to begin at $899, marking a $100 increase over the Pixel 10 starting price of $799, with the 128 GB storage choice removed and 256 GB set as the minimum. The Pixel 11 Pro and Pro XL models are also slated for $100 increases each, while early specs point to the Pro versions shifting from 16 GB down to 12 GB of RAM in the 256 GB storage version.

Samsung established the pattern at the start of the year by introducing the Galaxy S26 with a $100 increase on two of its three variants and likewise dropping the 128 GB choice, presenting it as a storage improvement. Apple has lifted prices throughout its range since June, when Tim Cook labeled the adjustments necessary, and is anticipated to raise iPhone costs with new releases in September. Qualcomm has informed clients that component prices will climb by double-digit percentages on deliveries after September 1.

Google is addressing the issue through more than price changes alone. Barkat explained that the firm has started a focused initiative to lower memory needs throughout Android and its related apps, aiming to support devices running with smaller RAM amounts while preserving smooth performance. The company highlighted its integrated strategy, which merges its Tensor processor, Android platform, and on-device AI systems, as key to handling models with greater efficiency than rivals using standard parts.

It remains to be seen if these technical efforts will ease buyer concerns when details emerge on August 12, revealing the precise added expense for ensuring phone RAM stays clear of AI server use.