Apple has removed even higher-end configurations from its Mac Studio and Mac mini, removing some of the more expensive memory options as the entire industry faces the RAM crisis.
The ongoing memory supply problem has claimed another casualty on Apple’s list. After removing the 512 GB RAM option for Mac Studio in March, Apple has narrowed its product options a bit further because component costs are high.
This time, it’s not just Mac Studio that’s affected. The Mac mini is also affected by memory degradation.
Potential buyers of the M3 Ultra version of Mac Studio could previously purchase the model with 96 GB or 256 GB of memory. However, as spotted by @BasicAppleGuy on X, potential buyers selecting the model will no longer see the 256GB option, only the 96GB.
In April, the M3 Ultra Mac Studio with 256 GB was found to be “unavailable”, while the 96 GB version had a long delivery time. There was also a similar issue for the M4 Max version, which indicated that the 128 GB capacity was unavailable.
Checks reveal that the 128GB option is also not listed for the M4 Max Mac Studio.
At the same time, anyone looking at the Mac mini equipped with one of the M4 Pro chips will see slim pickings when it comes to memory. Previously it had an option for 64GB of unified memory, but that too is gone, leaving 24GB and 48GB options.
This is the second configuration change for the Mac mini in May alone. Earlier in the month, it removed the option for the 256GB capacity M4 model at $599.
Instead, consumers wanting the cheapest desktop Mac model will have to pay at least $799 for the M4 Mac mini with an increased 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage.
RAM Bites
Even though Apple has so far insulated itself from memory issues affecting the rest of the industry, it won’t always be this way.
During the second quarter earnings call, current CEO Tim Cook confirmed that the memory pricing issue was affecting Apple’s bottom line. While this did not affect the December or March quarters due to carryover stocks offsetting the issue, Cook said a significant effect would be felt in June.
In the coming quarters, Cook warned there would be a further increase in impact, but added that Apple had a range of options.
Obviously, these options include removing more expensive configurations from the deck.