One of the largest PC manufacturers, HP, has responded to the ongoing shortage of RAM (DRAM) in a very unusual way. Amid rising prices and supply disruptions, the manufacturer has launched a subscription model for gaming laptops.
On the OMEN website, the company introduced the OMEN Gaming Subscription service — a subscription to gaming laptops. Users are offered to choose one of four OMEN laptop configurations with a monthly fee. The package includes the device itself, additional accessories (optional), and ongoing support.
HP positions the service as a solution to the problem of "outdated hardware" and rising prices: instead of a one-time large purchase, gamers pay a fixed amount per month and can upgrade their laptop in 12 months. At the same time, the device does not become the property of the user — it remains with the company even after several years of use.
According to calculations, the total amount of payments reaches the cost of the laptop in approximately 15–25 months, depending on the configuration. However, even after that, the client does not become the owner of the device. Moreover, early termination of the subscription will require payment of the remaining payments for the current 12-month period.