Budget Phone and TV Sales Drop on Chip-Driven Price Hikes

Entry-level smartphone and television sales fell for the first time in over a decade, according to industry data. Price increases linked to higher memory chip costs pushed first-time buyers out of the market.

Mid-range and premium device demand is growing faster than last year. That shift has led manufacturers to trim their model lineups. Some companies are bringing back non-smart TV models to offer a lower price point.

The move signals that component inflation is reshaping the low end of consumer electronics. Brands that once abandoned basic televisions are now re-entering that segment to capture budget-conscious customers.