The news: Tariff uncertainty is leading to technology price increases, with Microsoft raising global prices on Xbox consoles, accessories, and games, citing inflation, tariffs, and ongoing supply chain disruptions, per The Verge.

Why it’s worth watching: The tariffs, which include a baseline 10% levy on most imports and up to 245% on some goods from China, are reshaping pricing strategies across the tech industry. 

After the initial confusion stemming from the on-again, off-again tariff decrees, manufacturers are starting to increase prices or are halting sales.

• HP, Dell, Lenovo, Acer: These top notebook brands reportedly halted all US shipments temporarily, per TrendForce, to reassess tariff impacts, though most have since resumed operations.
• Framework: The modular laptop maker has temporarily halted sales of certain models in the US due to the new tariffs, warning that continued sales could result in losses.
• ASUS ROG: The major gaming laptop and accessories manufacturer has scaled back laptop sales to the US market. “Buy” buttons have been replaced by "Notify Me" buttons for various models on its website.
• 8BitDo and Anbernic: The makers of gaming peripherals and handheld gaming devices have both stopped supplying products to the US market.

Smartphones and components like semiconductors and memory cards are temporarily exempt from these punitive rates, but uncertainty is putting pressure on supply chains and could lead to delays in product releases and innovation slowdowns.

Tariffs are hitting both sides of the market: As brands raise prices or retreat from the US market, consumers are rushing to buy now—driven by a fear of future price hikes and product shortages.

Tech companies need to employ agility to get ahead of tariffs. They can adjust prices, rethink supply chains, and prepare for more surprises. For consumers, it means increasing costs, fewer choices, and a rush to buy before things get worse. 

Go further: Read our reports Impact of Tariffs on US Businesses and The First 100 Days of Trump.

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