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The entry-level 256GB MacBook Neo could reportedly be axed due to the rising memory chip prices.<\/p>\n
Former Bloomberg reporter Tim Culpan shared in his newsletter that Apple is considering removing the base 256GB MacBook Neo from the lineup<\/b> and only offer the 512GB version.<\/p>\n
Apple is said to be facing a difficult balancing act. While the MacBook Neo has reportedly seen stronger-than-expected demand, the ongoing surge in memory prices is significantly increasing production costs.<\/p>\n
According to Culpan, Apple has already exhausted its initial allocation of A18 Pro chips for the MacBook Neo<\/b>. To meet continued demand, the company needs to ramp up production using newly manufactured batches of chips that are substantially more expensive.<\/p>\n
Rather than passing this increase in cost to consumers, Culpan speculates that Apple may simplify the lineup by removing the 256GB model and offering only a 512GB configuration \u2013 which they presumably have more stocks of, and enjoy higher margins. If this sounds familiar, it\u2019s because Apple recently adopted a similar strategy with the Mac mini.<\/p>\n
To soften the impact of any potential price adjustments and keep things fresh, Apple may also introduce new colour options<\/b> for the MacBook Neo.<\/p>\n
With the memory chip shortage expected to persist until 2030, and as component costs continue to climb, it looks increasingly likely that Apple will eventually be forced to consider broader price increases across its product lineup.<\/p>\n
Source: Tim Culpan via MacRumors<\/p>\n<\/div>\n