Pine64 Halts Linux Device Production Until Mid-2027 Due to Memory Shortage

Pine64, known for its open-source Linux-based hardware solutions, has announced a complete halt in the production of devices in this category until at least mid-2027. The decision comes due to critical supply issues with DRAM and embedded eMMC modules. In a statement on its official Telegram channel, the manufacturer confirmed that it does not plan to release new batches of single-board computers, PinePhone smartphones, PineTab2 tablets, or PineNote e-readers in the near future.

Pine64 estimates that remaining stocks of PineTab2 and PineNote will be sold out within three months. However, production of microcontroller-based devices, such as the PineTime smartwatch, PineVoice smart speaker, and Pinecil soldering iron, will remain unaffected. Development of the updated PineTime Pro is also ongoing, with basic drivers for the display, touch controls, motion sensors, GPS, and audio system already implemented in the demo firmware.

The memory market situation has worsened due to rising demand for components used in AI systems. Analysts at TrendForce note that the eMMC/UFS segment is experiencing the most severe shortage among all NAND memory categories, as production capacities are being redirected toward more profitable enterprise SSDs. In February, Phison CEO Khein-Seng Pua warned that the cost of 8GB eMMC modules had surged 13-fold—from $1.5 to $20 per unit—threatening the viability of small electronics manufacturers.

Unlike competitors such as Raspberry Pi, which offset rising costs by increasing device prices, Pine64 sells its products at cost, leaving no room to absorb additional expenses. The company plans to reconsider resuming production only after memory component prices stabilize, which is not expected before late 2027.