Apple raises Mac and iPad prices citing AI‑driven memory chip shortage

Apple announced price increases for its Mac computers and iPad tablets, blaming a shortage of memory chips caused by soaring demand from artificial‑intelligence data centres. The entry‑level MacBook Neo now costs $699 (up from $599), the 512 GB MacBook Air is $1,299 (up from $1,099) and the 1 TB MacBook Pro is $1,999 (up from $1,699). iPad pricing also rose, with the 128 GB iPad Air at $749 (up from $599) and the 256 GB iPad Pro Wi‑Fi at $1,199 (up from $999). Analysts expect similar hikes for iPhone models later in the year. Following the announcement, Apple’s share price fell about 4.5%, down $13.29 to $279.88.