OPPO and OnePlus smartphones are set to become more expensive due to rising component costs linked to the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure. OPPO announced that starting March 16, prices for several of its budget devices, including models from the A and K series, will increase in China. Some OnePlus devices will also see price adjustments.
The company says the changes are driven by a sharp rise in memory prices, as AI companies buy large amounts of RAM and storage for data centers that power cloud-based AI services. With demand outpacing supply, electronics manufacturers are facing higher production costs, which are often passed on to consumers. Budget phones are particularly affected because they operate on thinner profit margins.
Other brands are also raising prices. For example, the Samsung Galaxy S26 and Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus launched at $100 higher starting prices than their predecessors, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra kept the same $1,300 starting price as the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.
Source: Android Authority
