Global shortage of memory chips for Apple's MacBook Air is affecting supplies of the company's most popular laptop. Customers ordering several MacBook Air models see delayed delivery. The dates are extending into late August and early September, reflecting growing pressure on Apple's supply chain.
The shortage comes after a sudden surge in demand for memory chips used in artificial intelligence servers. Major memory manufacturers shifted production capacity toward High-Bandwidth Memory (HBM) and enterprise-grade DRAM that power AI data centers. Thus, reducing the availability of conventional DRAM and NAND chips used in consumer devices, including laptops and smartphones.
According to industry sources, the inventories for the MacBook Air are tight both in online and physical stores. There is a shortage of stock in Apple Stores, particularly during the period when school goes back in session. Store personnel are recommending the14-inch MacBook Pro to education customers due to a lack of MacBook Air stock.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says, “Apple is working to address the issue by raising prices and sourcing memory from Chinese suppliers. Meanwhile, the company delayed its latest back-to-school promotion from June, and for the first time, the marketing material is more focused on the base model of the MacBook Pro. It even warns, MacBook Air subject to availability.”
This is not the first time that an Apple product is facing such problems due to a memory shortage. Earlier this year, there were issues with the availability of memory for Mac mini and Mac Studio, causing delays in their shipment.
Moreover, Apple has already informed its executives that the memory shortage will be a bigger issue in the next few months. Although Apple has managed to maintain strong demand for its products, the prolonged memory shortage could eventually translate into higher retail prices and fewer configuration choices.
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