GoKawiilRaspberry Pi firmware blocks RAM chip swaps on its single-board computers
Raspberry Pi confirmed that its firmware locks boards to their factory-installed RAM capacity, preventing users from swapping in higher-capacity chips. Engineer and forum moderator PhilE said the restriction, rolled out in firmware updates since late 2024, exists to stop resellers from installing larger RAM chips of dubious quality and passing boards off as higher-spec devices. He told users attempting DIY RAM upgrades or repairs that the effort is futile because the firmware also checks other device attributes beyond chip size.
The policy predates the current AI-driven RAM price spike, showing Raspberry Pi anticipated reseller fraud rather than reacting to market pressures. It also highlights tension between the company's maker-friendly image and its need to protect product reliability and support costs, potentially frustrating legitimate hobbyists who want to repair or upgrade their boards.
- Raspberry Pi firmware locks boards to their original factory RAM capacity.
- The restriction targets resellers who swap in cheap high-capacity chips and mislabel devices.
- The lock has been active since late 2024, before the AI-fueled RAM price surge.
Raspberry Pi 5 8GB Board — Since RAM upgrades are now locked out by firmware, the smart move is just buying the capacity you actually need upfront. The Raspberry Pi 5 8GB gives you plenty of headroom for demanding projects without any risky chip-swapping workarounds.
See Raspberry Pi 5 8GB Board on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: tomshardware.com — Mark Tyson, 2026-09-22
Published there as: “Raspberry Pi locks boards to factory RAM capacities in firmware — engineer tells DIY modders 'don't waste your time' trying repairs or upgrades, company cites shady reseller scams”
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