OpenAI chief argues most people should stop owning RAM

Sam Altman, the founder of OpenAI, stated that individuals owning devices with Random Access Memory is inefficient from a global perspective. He argued that it is poor resource allocation for people to possess limited supplies of DRAM that sit idle 95% of the time. The comment suggests that AI companies should hold the majority of the world's memory hardware to support their computational needs.

Altman made the remarks in a recent public appearance. He specifically referenced the constrained supply of memory chips, a shortage partly driven by the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure. The statement implies that the current model of consumer hardware, where individuals buy personal computers and consoles, is becoming less optimal for the industry's growth.

The comment appeared in a reader letter column published on November 2, 2026. A reader noted that Altman's view applies to any device using RAM, including video game consoles. The reader expressed concern that AI development is not only altering the gaming market but also that its leaders expect it to fundamentally change the world. The letter cited Altman's previous remark that AI will likely lead to the end of the world but will create wealthy companies in the meantime.

The letter reflects a growing anxiety among gamers about rising hardware costs. Another reader in the same column discussed the price of the Nintendo Switch 2, noting a recent discount of £134. That reader expressed hesitation about purchasing the console due to high costs, despite upcoming titles such as a new Zelda game scheduled for release around Christmas. The writer mentioned that while Nintendo consoles are generally reliable, the expense is becoming a barrier for many households.

A separate letter addressed the performance of the PlayStation 5. One reader observed that the console has not significantly outperformed its predecessor, the PlayStation 4. They projected that the PS5 will sell approximately 120 million units over its lifetime. This figure falls 30 million units short of the Nintendo Switch and 40 million units short of the PlayStation 2 record. The reader suggested that these sales figures indicate a stagnation in the number of consumers willing to purchase dedicated gaming hardware.

The column also included comments on other industry developments. One writer criticized Electronic Arts for choosing to develop Star Wars Battlefront 3 over a new Mass Effect game. They argued that the cost of licensing the Star Wars intellectual property is high and that the company does not own the rights to adapt the content for other media. Another reader discussed the Redmagic gaming phone, noting that high-end mobile devices are becoming expensive and that many consumers question the practicality of using phones as primary gaming devices.

Readers can submit comments to the publication's gaming team via email. The column notes that these letters are edited for length and content before publication. The editors also mentioned that a site-wide comments section is currently unavailable, with the team working to restore an alternative solution for reader interaction.