Samsung and Google raise prices on their budget phones

Samsung and Google have each increased the starting prices of their budget-friendly phone models, in moves that appear linked to a global RAM shortage affecting the broader tech industry.

According to 9to5Google, the Pixel 10a now costs $100 more than before. Google originally launched the phone in March for $499, but it now retails for $599. While that's still relatively affordable by Pixel standards, it no longer represents the same value it once did. MobileSyrup reports the increase is even steeper in Canada, where the phone's price jumped from $679 to $849.

Samsung hikes prices across its A series

Android Authority reports that Samsung has raised prices for the second time this week, this time across its entire Galaxy A lineup. The Galaxy A17 5G rose from $200 to $270, having already seen an earlier price increase in August. The Galaxy A27 5G went from $350 to $380, the Galaxy A37 5G climbed from $450 to $490, and the Galaxy A57 5G increased from $550 to $600. In total, Samsung's A series phones now cost between $30 and $70 more than before.

A longer-term trend

These increases may not be temporary. It's likely that future versions of these budget phones will launch at similarly elevated prices. The best-case scenario is that the RAM shortage eases within roughly a year as Chinese manufacturers ramp up production. A more pessimistic outlook suggests elevated RAM prices could persist through 2030. For shoppers seeking an affordable phone, buying used may increasingly become the most practical option.