Valve has announced that the availability of the Steam Deck is being impacted by ongoing RAM and storage shortages, largely due to the increasing demand driven by the tech industry's investment in AI. As major companies like Amazon and Microsoft ramp up their AI-related infrastructure, the competition for these critical components has risen sharply, affecting supply chains across consumer electronics. Currently, all three models of the Steam Deck are out of stock in the US, while availability varies in other regions. This situation follows Valve's earlier declaration regarding the postponement of its new Steam Machines also due to similar shortages. The broader implications for the gaming landscape are significant, with Sony reportedly considering a delay for the PS6 and Nintendo contemplating a price hike for the Switch 2 amid these developments.

What are the reasons behind the Steam Deck's availability issues?

The Steam Deck's availability issues stem from RAM and storage shortages caused by an increased demand driven by AI technology advancements. Major tech companies are competing for these resources, which has led to scarcity affecting the production of consumer electronics, including the Steam Deck.

The Steam Deck is a handheld gaming device released by Valve in 2022 that allows players to enjoy PC games on the go. With its portable design and robust performance, it quickly gained popularity among gamers. However, given the recent supply issues, enthusiasts hoping to get their hands on one may face delays. The device's success puts it at the center of ongoing discussions about the future of mobile and PC gaming as companies navigate through pivotal technological shifts.