News
Help with your donation!
Even small amounts help us with our work, and we are especially happy about standing orders.
22.02.2026 · Peter Bernscherer · Share on Facebook · Share on X (Twitter)
AI boom meets computer market – and our work at PCs für alle
A radio interview with Peter Bernscherer from the association PCs für alleThe interview was conducted by Ali Cem Deniz for FM4
The rapid development of artificial intelligence – especially tools like ChatGPT – is leaving a noticeable mark on the hardware market. What at first glance appears to be technological progress has, for clubs like PCs für alle very concrete and problematic consequences.
Why are computer components becoming more expensive?
Large technology companies like Nvidia, OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft are investing heavily in expanding their AI infrastructure. For their massive data centers, they are buying enormous quantities of graphics cards, RAM, and SSDs – components also found in regular computers and smartphones. The result: drastically rising prices for everyone.
The phenomenon surrounding RAM is particularly striking and has already been described in the industry as… “Ramageddon” This is described as an unprecedented shortage and price explosion in RAM modules, triggered by the mass purchasing by AI companies.
For comparison: We saw something similar during the graphics card boom fueled by crypto mining. Back then, however, it was primarily individuals and small companies seeking quick profits. Today, it's global tech giants engaged in a veritable AI arms race – with far greater market power.
What does this mean for PCs for everyone?
The association "pcs für alle" (PCs for All) has made it its mission to provide refurbished computers at affordable prices to people who cannot afford new devices. A key component of this refurbishment is the installation of fast SSDs – they are easily replaceable and significantly increase the performance of older devices.
But this is precisely where the price development has its full impact:
What did a 120GB M.2 SSD cost previously? under 10 EuroThe price today is around EUR 25 – a doubling in a short time. That sounds like a small amount, but it impacts all our work and the number of people we can help.
AI is also changing communication with people seeking help.
Peter Bernscherer has observed another, rather unexpected change: the way people contact the association has changed. Previously, inquiries were short and direct – for example: "We need a PC for our children." Today, many emails arrive that were clearly written by AI tools: long-winded, awkwardly worded, and often difficult to understand.
His advice: AI tools should be used wisely – not for every short message. For simple inquiries, it's best to communicate directly, clearly, and concisely. AI-generated texts often come across as impersonal and counterproductive in such cases.
Outlook: No relief in sight
Manufacturers like Samsung and Apple have already announced that upcoming smartphone generations could be more expensive – with only minor performance improvements. It's unclear when the situation on the component market will return to normal. The current situation is unprecedented.