Smartphone prices are rising almost every week as component shortages continue to disrupt the market. For buyers in Indonesia, that means a new phone can now cost noticeably more than expected even before a purchase decision is made.
The pressure comes from tighter memory supply, which has been increasingly diverted to artificial intelligence devices. As a result, the smartphone market is facing a problem that is unlikely to ease quickly, and consumers are being pushed to think more carefully about timing and value.
Why prices are still moving up
According to gadget observer Herry SW, the current trend is likely to continue throughout 2026. He said there is still no meaningful decline in global component prices, especially memory, so the upward pressure on handset prices has not disappeared.
He also pointed to the rupiah, which has not strengthened significantly. That combination makes further price increases in Indonesia a real possibility, especially for buyers waiting for a better moment to shop.
The smarter buying strategy
In this market, the most practical choice is not always the newest model. Herry recommends looking at phones released in the previous year, especially those that have not experienced large price corrections yet.
That approach can be more sensible because last year’s devices often still carry relevant specifications while avoiding the sharpest jump in launch pricing. For many consumers, this creates a better balance between performance and budget.
Last year’s models can still make sense
Herry said smartphones from the previous generation are not necessarily far behind this year’s models in terms of capability. In everyday use, that means buyers can still get a device that performs well without being forced into the most expensive tier.
This is particularly useful for shoppers who want a new phone but do not want to pay more than necessary. In a market affected by memory shortages, focusing on the features that truly matter can help avoid impulsive purchases.
What the flagship example shows
Herry cited vivo X300 and X300 Pro as flagship phones whose specifications are not inferior to 2026 releases. He also noted that these models are not intended for budget-conscious consumers because their prices have not been corrected downward.
The example shows that a newer phone is not automatically the best value. Some flagship models may still appeal to premium buyers, but for most consumers, a competitively priced phone from the previous year is the more rational choice.
What to check before buying
Before making a purchase, consumers should ask whether their daily needs truly require the latest model. If the answer is no, comparing price, specifications, and the level of price correction on earlier generations can help reduce the risk of overspending.
With the memory shortage still shaping the market, smartphone prices may continue to move quickly. Buyers who stay selective are more likely to get a new device without being hit by the full force of the ongoing increase.