Over the past few years we have seen a continuing shortage of chips and semiconductors due to the explosive demand caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing lockdowns. This has led to the inability to satisfy customer requests and to a subsequent rise in prices. Even the popular single board computer Raspberry Pi, used by millions of makers around the world for their projects, has certainly not been immune from the problem, as it has been difficult to find for several months, especially at its recommended price.
Recently, the youtuber Jeff Geerling has published an interesting video in which he updates the user on the current situation and, unfortunately, there are no important changes in this regard. In fact, supplies are still limited and Raspberry Pi is unable to obtain the adequate production volume to meet demand, especially from end customers. The company has decided to give higher priority to OEM and industrial ones, so that companies that rely on Raspberry Pi for their projects do not suffer further, possibly leading them to bankruptcy.
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I wish the Raspberry Pi would start giving priority to hobbyists and makers again. This was the original intent: education, hobbyists and makers. Much of the Raspberry Pi community is made up of makers and it is difficult to see these people forced to choose alternatives.
The situation could lead several people to look at other single board computers with greater interest as well instead of waiting or paying for Raspberry Pi at a premium price on eBay or various sales portals. There are now several alternatives on the market, which differ from each other for various characteristics, such as cost, form factor or power.