Nicci Stevens
Monthly Digital Cover
Buy Now or Pay More Later: The AI Tax is Looming
As global demand for AI technology drives up smartphone component costs, TECNO urges South Africans to upgrade now and beat the looming “AI Tax” before prices rise
If you think smartphone prices are high now, a massive shift is coming. Global, innovative technology brand TECNO reminds South Africans that the worldwide “AI Boom” is about to hit their wallets in the form of an unavoidable AI Tax.
While innovative, AI-driven technology brings exciting new features, it also creates a hidden cost. Giant tech companies overseas are currently snapping up the world’s supply of computer chips and memory parts to build massive AI data centres. This global demand has turned standard smartphone components into premium commodities, driving manufacturing costs to record highs.
Why Prices are Under Pressure
As global demand for AI-capable parts soars, the cost of making your next smartphone jumps. Industry analysts predict that this “AI Tax” could see the prices of budget-friendly smartphones rise by as much as 20% to 30% in the coming months.
The industry is facing a “Memory Apocalypse” where the silicon wafers once used for your phone are being diverted to power massive AI infrastructure. Because these AI systems require up to three times more manufacturing capacity than a standard phone module, smartphones are being pushed to the back of the line.
How You can Beat the Surge
Instead of waiting until prices go up and you’re left with the bill, TECNO is doing things differently: urging you to upgrade now to secure current-generation pricing before the market shifts.
- Fact: Memory costs have already increased sharply, in some cases becoming one of the most expensive parts of a phone.
- Proof: Contract prices for critical phone memory are up more than 75% year-over-year, meaning new stock will inevitably be pricier.
- The Benefit: A reliable smartphone is an essential tool for school and work. Don’t let the AI Tax make it a luxury you can’t afford.
Don’t Wait for the Price Hike
If you’re a student heading back to university or a professional settling into the work rhythm, having the right tools is a smart step towards a productive year. TECNO is offering the following prices to beat the “AI-tax”:
Retailer | Model | Price | Saving | |
DUNNS | SPARK GO 2 | R 1,299 | R 200 | |
EDGARS | SPARK GO 2 | R 1,199 | R 300 |
|
SPARK 40 | R 2,299 | R 200 |
| |
SPARK 40S | R 3,499 | R 500 |
| |
GAME | SPARK GO 2024 | R 1,299 | R 700 |
|
POP 7 | R 999 | R 500 |
| |
SPARK 20P | R 2,499 | R 2,500 |
| |
SPARK 20C | R 1,799 | R 1,200 |
| |
HIFI CORP | SPARK GO 2 | R 1,299 | R 200 |
|
JET | SPARK 40 | R 2,199 | R 300 |
|
SPARK GO 2 | R 1,299 | R 200 |
| |
MR PRICE | POP 7 | R 1,199 | R 300 |
|
SPARK GO 2 | R 1,199 | R 300 |
| |
SPARK 40 | R 2,199 | R 300 |
| |
SPARK GO 2S | R 1,499 | R 100 |
| |
TFG | SPARK 40 | R 2,199 | R 300 |
|
SPARK GO 2 | R 1,299 | R 200 |
|
Availability
Beat the AI Tax today. The aforementioned TECNO deals are available from the stated retail partners until the end of January (availability varies per retailer, per store, per model, and while stocks last. E&OE).
To stay up to date with all the latest news and price alerts, check out and follow TECNO’s Facebook page.
Sandton Lifestyle Team
