Apple is adjusting its hardware shipment plans for 2026 due to a global shortage of DRAM (Dynamic Random-Access Memory). This development is expected to impact the availability of several upcoming products, including the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the foldable iPhone Ultra.
The memory shortage has already affected the supply of devices such as the Mac Studio, Mac mini, and MacBook Air. Memory manufacturers are currently prioritizing contracts for AI data centers, which are more lucrative, thereby reducing the supply available for consumer electronics. This shift has led to increased prices and extended wait times for various products.
In response to these challenges, Apple raised prices on its Mac and iPad lines in June, and similar price adjustments are anticipated for the iPhone lineup in September. The upcoming iPhone models are expected to be available in limited quantities due to the ongoing memory constraints, likely resulting in rapid sell-outs during the preorder period.
Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has addressed reports suggesting that TSMC, Apple’s chip supplier, has a significant backlog of unpackaged processors awaiting memory chips. Kuo clarified that Apple plans processor production at least three months in advance, aligning with expected memory availability, and does not accumulate large numbers of wafers ahead of time. He emphasized that while memory shortages are real, the scenario of TSMC holding $1 billion worth of work-in-progress inventory due to memory delays is unlikely, given the close coordination between Apple and TSMC.
As the tech industry grapples with these supply chain challenges, consumers should be prepared for potential price increases and limited availability of new Apple products in the coming months. Monitoring official announcements and planning purchases accordingly will be essential for those looking to acquire the latest devices.
