The ongoing RAM shortage is reportedly forcing PC makers to fight for the available capacity, with companies considering bringing 8GB notebook configurations as a standard to combat this incessant problem. These circumstances are why market research firm TrendForce has revised its notebook shipments forecast for 2026, predicting that portable computers will witness a 5.4 percent year-over-year decline. However, Apple is expected to secure a much better position, and with its low-cost MacBook expected to launch in the first half of 2026, the company should have an edge over its competitors.
Lenovo also reported to be in a similar position as Apple, but overall notebook shipments are estimated to witness a 5.4 percent year-over-year decline
With the newest projection, the notebook shipments forecast has decreased from 178.5 million units to 172.9 million units. Assuming the DRAM shortage persists, which will keep component prices inflated, full-year shipments for 2026 could witness a steeper 10.1 percent year-over-year decline. Given that this segment heavily relies on close supply chain relationships, Apple is one such firm that can produce significantly better results than its rivals going into next year.
Even though the Cupertino firm’s long-term agreements with Samsung and SK hynix are scheduled to expire in January 2026, TrendForce reports that Apple is a company that displays better channel and pricing management, making it better equipped to withstand the DRAM shortage and the increased prices that follow the scarce supply. Just recently, Samsung was reported to become the California-based giant’s largest DRAM supplier for iPhone 17 and iPhone 18 models, accounting for between 60-70 percent of total LPDDR5X shipments.
“Apple serves as a prime example. Despite increasing memory costs, its integrated supply chain and robust pricing power allow for greater flexibility in adjusting its product lineup. Additionally, Apple's substantial and steady procurement volumes, along with a clear product release schedule and highly predictable demand planning, facilitate securing priority cooperation with memory suppliers.”
Where rival notebook manufacturers will either have a choice to offer higher memory configurations at increased prices or downgraded hardware, Apple’s 12.9-inch portable Mac expected to arrive in spring 2026 should attract buyers thanks to the company’s firm grip on its supply, with the launch helping to boost overall shipments with its decent specifications such as the A18 Pro, paired with the low price.
M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro models are also reported to launch in the first half of 2026, but since these are the more premium models, we don’t expect them to generate much traction. Fortunately, the M5 MacBook Air family is also slated to arrive in the same period, offering customers a notable chipset upgrade and potentially a competitive price to warrant an upgrade.
News Source: TrendForce
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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