Apple’s retail stores are currently experiencing notable inventory shortages across several key products, including the MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, Apple TV, and HomePod mini. These dwindling supplies have sparked widespread speculation about the imminent release of updated models for these devices.
MacBook Pro and iPad Pro:
Renowned tech journalist Mark Gurman recently highlighted that the M4 MacBook Pro and iPad Pro are facing significant stock constraints. He noted that the iPad Pro M4 is fairly constrained at Apple retail stores, with online shipments delayed until between October 21-28 for certain configurations. Gurman interprets this as a strong indicator of an impending iPad Pro M5 debut. Similarly, custom configurations of the base-level 14-inch MacBook Pro are experiencing delays until the end of October, further suggesting that new models are on the horizon. ([mactrast.com](https://www.mactrast.com/2025/10/do-dwindling-ipad-pro-macbook-pro-supplies-in-stores-indicate-updates-are-on-the-way/?utm_source=openai))
Apple TV and HomePod mini:
In addition to the MacBook Pro and iPad Pro, inventory levels for the Apple TV set-top box and HomePod mini are also running low. Gurman reported that the Apple TV is seeing very low inventory at Apple stores nationwide, alongside the M4 MacBook Pro and iPad Pro. This pattern is reminiscent of previous instances where low stock levels preceded new product announcements. ([appleinsider.com](https://appleinsider.com/articles/25/10/14/beyond-macbook-pro-and-ipad-pro-apple-retail-is-running-out-of-two-other-key-items?utm_source=openai))
Historical Context:
Apple has a history of reducing inventory levels ahead of new product launches. For example, in June 2012, Apple pulled Mac Pro stocks from most retail stores ahead of the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), signaling the introduction of updated models. ([macrumors.com](https://www.macrumors.com/2012/06/05/apple-pulls-mac-pro-stocks-from-most-retail-stores-ahead-of-wwdc/?utm_source=openai)) Similarly, in March 2020, limited availability of iPad Pro models was observed, which was interpreted as a sign of an imminent refresh. ([appleinsider.com](https://appleinsider.com/articles/20/03/03/tight-ipad-pro-custom-mac-availability-sign-of-coronavirus-supply-struggles?utm_source=openai))
Anticipated Product Updates:
The current inventory shortages align with rumors and leaks suggesting that Apple is preparing to launch new versions of these products. The upcoming iPad Pro is expected to feature the new M5 chip, enhancing performance and efficiency. The MacBook Pro is also anticipated to receive an upgrade to the M5 chip, offering improved processing power and battery life. The Apple TV is rumored to be updated with an A17 or newer chip, potentially supporting Apple’s new N1 wireless networking chip. The HomePod mini, which has not seen a significant update since its release in November 2020, is also due for a refresh. ([macrumors.com](https://www.macrumors.com/2024/01/20/two-apple-stores-permanently-close-today/?utm_source=openai))
Conclusion:
While Apple has not officially announced any new products, the combination of inventory shortages and historical patterns strongly suggests that new versions of the MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, Apple TV, and HomePod mini are imminent. Consumers and industry observers are advised to stay tuned for official announcements from Apple in the coming weeks.
