Valve admits Steam Deck availability is affected by memory and storage shortages

Source: Engadget

Availability Warning

Valve has posted a notice on the Steam Deck page warning that the handheld gaming console “may be out of stock intermittently” in certain regions “due to memory and storage shortages.” The company also reiterated that the more affordable Steam Deck LCD is no longer in production and will no longer be available once stocks run out. Valve began phasing out the LCD console back in December, meaning the OLED handhelds are now the only option for gamers who want a Steam Deck. The notice follows a complete sell‑out of Steam Deck units a few days ago.

Cause of Shortages

RAM and storage shortages are affecting tech manufacturers because of massive demand from the artificial intelligence industry. AI companies have been snapping up available memory chips and hard drives for rapid infrastructure buildouts, leaving other sectors short. Samsung’s global marketing leader Wonjin Lee warned at CES 2026 that memory price hikes are on the horizon.

Impact on Other Valve Products

Valve also had to delay the release of the Steam Machine and the Steam Frame VR headset due to industry‑wide memory and storage shortages. The company had intended to start shipping those devices in early 2026, but announced it must rethink their launch dates and pricing, suggesting they could be priced higher than originally planned.