'Don't waste your time': Raspberry Pi expert reveals users are essentially unable to swap out RAM chips for repairs or upgrades

A Raspberry Pi expert has revealed that users cannot replace the RAM chips on newer Pi 5-family boards, as the device's firmware has been designed to prevent such changes since at least September 2024. This decision, confirmed by a company engineer in June 2026, is intended to discourage reselling of cheaper 2GB boards with larger untested chips and to prevent bootlegging with substandard components that could cause quality control issues.

Although same-part repairs are still possible, an older bootloader can be flashed onto devices to bypass the memory check. Raspberry Pi's senior principal software engineer, Phil Elwell, has stated bluntly that attempting to upgrade the RAM will not work. The lock was implemented before the RAM shortage began, and it serves both to control resales and to avoid becoming a support channel for unofficial memory mods.

While the rationale behind the lock is understandable from a business perspective, the company could have handled it more transparently. Users hoping to upgrade their Pi's memory may be disappointed to learn that the effort will be futile, potentially exacerbating the memory shortage and leading to more complaints on Raspberry Pi forums.