Global memory chip shortage hits MacBook Air availability
Apple's most popular Mac, the MacBook Air, is now facing supply constraints due to a global memory chip shortage driven by demand from AI companies. Apple is responding with price increases and sourcing from Chinese suppliers.
The global memory chip shortage is now affecting the availability of Apple's most popular Mac, the MacBook Air, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. Earlier, the shortage had already impacted Apple's more niche computers, the Mac mini and Mac Studio.
Retailers report that MacBook Air supply is more constrained than ever before. Customers looking to buy one from Apple's website face waits until the second half of August, and depending on the configuration, even into September.
Gurman attributes the shortage to the heavy memory demand from AI companies. Apple is addressing the issue by raising prices and sourcing memory chips from Chinese suppliers as it works to meet demand.
In a related move, Apple has delayed its usual back-to-school promotion, which typically launches in June. For the first time, the company's marketing materials emphasize the base-model MacBook Pro, and they include a note warning that “MacBook Air is subject to availability.”
