Apple Faces Memory Shortages: Impact on Mac Mini and Mac Studio Models
Apple has recently removed several desktop Mac configurations from its online store as the global memory shortage persists. Notably, Mac mini models with 32GB and 64GB of RAM are no longer available for purchase, nor is the M3 Ultra Mac Studio with 256GB RAM.
The M3 Ultra Mac Studio is now available only in a 96GB RAM configuration, with higher-tier options eliminated. Both M3 Mac Studio and M4 Max Mac Studio models have delivery estimates of 9 to 10 weeks.
Changes in Mac Mini Configurations
The Mac mini lineup has also seen significant changes. The M4 Pro model now maxes out at 48GB of RAM, eliminating the 64GB option. Similarly, the standard M4 Mac mini can only be purchased with 16GB or 24GB of RAM, as the 32GB option has been removed.
In addition to RAM configuration changes, Apple has removed the Mac mini with 256GB of SSD storage, leaving the 512GB model as the minimum option. This change effectively raised the starting price of the Mac mini from $599 to $799. Apple had previously stopped accepting orders for some Mac Studio and Mac mini machines with higher amounts of RAM in March and April.
Supply Challenges and Future Expectations
Apple CEO Tim Cook recently acknowledged that the Mac mini and the Mac Studio are expected to be in short supply for months to come. “We think, looking forward, that the Mac mini and Mac Studio may take several months to reach supply demand balance,” Cook stated.
Cook also mentioned that Apple underestimated the demand for the Mac mini and the Mac Studio, driven by customers looking for machines capable of running AI and agentic tools locally. With expectations of rising memory costs, Apple is likely conserving supply by reducing configuration options. The global demand for AI servers has strained memory chip supplies, leading to higher prices and shortages in the market.
Update: Article updated to note that the 32GB M4 Mac mini is also no longer available.
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