The MacBook Air is experiencing limited availability, even with an increase in price.
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The memory shortage is now affecting MacBook Air supplies.
For several months, Apple appeared to be more insulated from the memory crisis compared to other laptop manufacturers. It had established long-term agreements with suppliers, significant purchasing power, and sufficient margins to absorb increasing component costs. However, the challenge has now reached Apple’s most popular laptop.
Mark Gurman from Bloomberg reports that the availability of the MacBook Air has significantly decreased throughout Apple’s retail network. Many configurations are showing delivery estimates extending into late August, and some customized options may not arrive until September.
This shortage follows closely on the heels of Apple's price increase for the M5 MacBook Air. The 13-inch model initially launched at $1,099 in March but rose to $1,299 in June. Customers are now expected to pay an additional $200 and might still wait several weeks for their preferred model.
Apple is re-evaluating its sales approach for students.
In response to this situation, Apple is altering its sales strategy. Bloomberg indicates that the company has postponed its back-to-school campaign, shifting more focus to the entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro in its stores and promotional materials.
Some promotions even indicate that the MacBook Air is “subject to availability.” Typically, Apple does not redirect students away from the Air, as it is lighter, more affordable, and sufficiently powerful for the majority of academic requirements.
While the MacBook Pro features a better display, additional ports, and enhanced sustained performance, it comes at a significantly higher price. Apple may be looking to reduce inventory before the anticipated M6 refresh later this year.
The situation might deteriorate further.
The memory shortage initially impacted the availability of the Mac mini and Mac Studio. Now that it has extended to the MacBook Air, it highlights the increasing strain on Apple’s supply chain. Samsung, one of the three major RAM suppliers, predicts that memory shortages may worsen in 2027 and continue through 2028 as AI data centers consume a larger share of production. If RAM and storage prices keep rising, Apple could be compelled to announce additional price increases.
Under these circumstances, its new Upgrade leasing program becomes more appealing. Customers can divide the cost of a Mac into monthly payments, then choose to return it, upgrade, or pay the remaining balance to retain it. While this program does not make a $1,299 MacBook Air less expensive, it provides Apple with a more flexible approach to selling increasingly high-priced hardware.
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