All hopes of seeing the new MacBook Pros and Mac Studio may have to wait due to a growing global memory chip shortage, with the products likely to launch at a later date.
Aside from touchscreen support, other potential features have yet to be confirmed. Based on speculation, the refreshed high-end models could includeM6 Pro and M6 Max chips, an OLED display, a Dynamic Island and a thinner design, according toMacRumors.
It has also been suggested that the Mac Pro models may adopt MacBook Ultra branding. They are expected to launch alongside macOS 27, indicating the refreshed high-end models could feature a more touch-friendly interface.
As for the Mac Studio, it is likely to arrive a month after the scheduled launch of theiPhone 18 variants. Initially rumoured for mid-2026, early forecasts suggested it would be unveiled at WWDC 2026 in June.
However, chip shortages have also disrupted those plans. Gurman said, citing sources within Apple, that Mac Studio shipments are not now expected until October.
As for expected changes, the main updates are likely to be M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips. At present, the current models use the mismatched M4 Max and M3 Ultra chips. Beyond that, few other improvements have been reported.
While this suggests no major design changes for Apple's desktop, that could still shift in the coming months. However, with the chip shortage posing a significant challenge for the Cupertino company, any potential upgrades to the Mac Studio remain uncertain.
With the global memory chip shortage affecting the tech industry, the next likely consequence is higher prices for phones, laptops and desktops.Nikkei Asiaforecasts the crisis could last until 2027, suggesting consumers planning to upgrade should brace for potential price increases.
Artificial intelligence has been identified as a key driver of the shortage. AI servers require vast quantities of specialised components to handle complex tasks, leaving consumer tech companies scrambling for essential parts used in laptops and smartphones.
Apple is among the companies affected and is reportedly facing supply constraints. To illustrate, theMacBook Neois a recent example. The laptop, which retails for around $599 (£443), has already sold out its April inventory, according toMac Observer. Orders are still being taken, but delivery estimates have been pushed back significantly.
Source: International Business Times UK
