President Trump’s Tariffs Are Already Affecting Tech Consumers and Businesses

President Donald Trump’s newly implemented tariff measures are currently influencing the technology sector, and the repercussions are being felt. Manufacturing giants such as China and Vietnam are significantly impacted, prompting swift responses from both companies and consumers alike.

Just a few days following the introduction of these tariffs, many consumers are hurrying to purchase electronics ahead of potential price increases, while tech firms are adjusting their product availability within the U.S. In certain instances, eagerly awaited product releases have been postponed entirely.

Here’s a glimpse into how some of the prominent players in tech are experiencing the effects:

Framework Suspends U.S. Sales of Certain Laptops

Framework, a brand recognized for its modular and repairable laptops, has ceased the sale of specific models in the U.S. owing to the new tariffs. The models impacted include the Ultra 5 125H and Ryzen 5 7640U. The company made this announcement on X (formerly Twitter), mentioning tariffs on items from Taiwan as the cause behind their decision.

In a subsequent update, Framework explained that other companies are also discreetly taking similar actions, although they have not acknowledged it publicly. For enthusiasts of customizable and eco-friendly laptops, this news is particularly frustrating.

Consumers Rush to Purchase iPhones Amid Tariff Uncertainties

While Apple has not officially modified iPhone prices or availability, that hasn’t deterred consumers from heading to Apple Stores to acquire devices in advance of any possible price hikes. Bloomberg reports a noticeable increase in iPhone purchases over the weekend after the announcement of a 54% tariff on Chinese imports — including iPhones, which are produced in China.

Reuters anticipates that, in an extreme situation, iPhone prices could escalate to as high as $2,300. Nevertheless, this remains speculative, as Apple might opt to absorb some of the extra costs, or a new trade agreement could be established that lessens the impact.

Nintendo Postpones U.S. Pre-Orders for Switch 2

Nintendo was prepared to kick off pre-orders for its upcoming Switch 2 console on April 9, with a price set at $450. However, the company has now postponed U.S. pre-orders indefinitely, directly attributing this decision to the new tariffs.

While the global launch date of June 5 stays the same, it remains uncertain when U.S. customers will be able to place pre-orders for the console — or at what cost. Nintendo has yet to announce a price increase, but the delay implies the company may be reevaluating its pricing approach.

Much of Nintendo’s hardware is produced in Vietnam, which is now subjected to a 46% tariff under Trump’s policy. Whether Nintendo will pass these costs to consumers or absorb them is yet to be determined. Should the price rise, the Switch 2 might become the first major tech product to experience a tariff-related price increase before its official launch.

What’s on the Horizon?

With tariffs now enforced and further company responses expected in the upcoming weeks, the tech industry — along with consumers — might be facing a rocky period. Whether through elevated prices, restricted availability, or postponed launches, the ripple effects of these trade policies are already being experienced.