Tech cannibalization to become mainstream? Removing expensive components and reballing memory set to reach 7–9% of…

• Reballed memory could account for up to 9% of smartphones in 2027
• Rising DRAM prices are pushing phone makers toward reused memory
• Budget handsets currently account for most smartphones using reballed chips

Rising memory costs are pushing smartphone manufacturers toward an unusual form of component reuse, with refurbished memory expected to appear in more devices by 2027.

TrendForce estimates this approach will account for 3–4% of smartphones in 2026, before its market penetration increases to approximately 7–9% next year.

The shift is being driven by expensive mobile DRAM, which is increasing manufacturing expenses and putting additional pressure on brands serving price-sensitive buyers.

Reused memory offers manufacturers a cheaper route

Reballed memory comes from integrated circuits removed from existing circuit boards, then prepared for another installation after their original solder connections are carefully replaced.

Those connections use small metal spheres beneath the chip, allowing it to communicate electrically with the...

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