OpenAI chief warns that personal computers waste scarce DRAM
Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, says that storing large amounts of DRAM in personal devices is inefficient because the memory is active only about five percent of the time. He argues that cloud data centres should be fully utilised given global supply constraints. Altman notes that OpenAI and partners have secured roughly 40 % of the world’s RAM output through long‑term agreements with manufacturers such as Samsung and SK Hynix, contributing to higher prices for laptops, phones and other electronics.
Key facts
- Altman made the remarks on the Cheeky Pint podcast on 30 Oct 2026.
- OpenAI’s agreements cover a significant share of the world’s DRAM production for the next few years.
- Manufacturers cite chipmaker spending on memory as a factor in rising device prices.
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Why it matters
Limited DRAM supply and rising device costs affect consumers and AI development.
What changed
First published from The Verge and Engadget