Apple’s popular MacBook Air is becoming increasingly difficult to purchase as a worldwide memory chip shortage continues to impact inventory levels. According to Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, retail locations are struggling to maintain stock of the laptop, with shipment constraints at unprecedented levels. The supply crunch stems from the same global memory shortage that prompted Apple to raise MacBook Air prices by $200 just five weeks earlier.
The shortage is visibly affecting Apple’s online store, where all configurations of the 13-inch and 15-inch M5 MacBook Air models are currently backordered through early September. Delivery delays grow longer for models with higher memory specifications. Meanwhile, third-party retailers including Amazon and Best Buy continue offering faster shipping options, though inventory at these locations may eventually become depleted.
The memory chip scarcity, dubbed “RAMageddon,” has been driven by surging demand from artificial intelligence data center construction projects. In response to supply pressures, Apple has adjusted its marketing strategy, promoting the MacBook Pro as an alternative during its back-to-school campaign and adding availability disclaimers to some advertisements. The company has also removed certain configurations of other Mac products from its online store.
Despite these challenges, Apple’s Mac business remains strong. During its recent earnings call, CEO Tim Cook reported that Mac revenue jumped 29 percent year-over-year in the June quarter, marking the category’s best performance during that period.
Originally reported by Mashable →
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