Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has spotted that Intel-based 16-inch MacBook Pro models are not available on several Apple Stores for in-store pickup and online orders have extended delivery dates. The shortage can be a result of several reasons like the new MacBook Pro models, the global chip crisis, or production issues related to China’s new electricity regulations.
The 16-inch MacBook Pro (which if you’ve lost track still uses Intel and hasn’t been updated in *2* years) is showing unavailable for pick up at many Apple stores plus shipment delays. pic.twitter.com/vPpTLxXIUz
— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) October 11, 2021
Rumor mills claim the new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models are still on track for launch this year
The shortage of Intel-based 16-inch MacBook Pro models has given rise to speculation that Apple is going to launch the new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models this month or later this year. The new models will be powered by next-generation M1X Apple Silicon, with an advanced mini-LED display, no Touch ID bar, support for up to 32GB RAM, HDMI and SD-card slot, improved 1080p webcam, a power connector that attaches via magnets, and other new improvements.
Previously it was reported that the new MacBook Pro models will launch at WWDC 21 event but were delayed due to production issues related to mini-LED display. DigiTimes claims that mass production of the upcoming redesigned 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros has begun and the company is expecting to reach a maximum of 800,000 monthly shipments of the laptop by the end of November.
Having said that, the shortage can also be related to supply chain issues. The global chip crisis is not over yet, and it is likely to persist for years to come which is adversely impacting smartphones and computers industries. 9to5Mac writes that Apple acknowledged the impact of supply shortages on iPad and Mac availability.
“We expect to be supply-gated, not demand-gated,” Cook told analysts. Cook also explained that “legacy nodes” are the biggest issue in the shortage, and it’s hard for Apple to predict an impact because there are so many players involved. Apple has also seen a boon in iPad and Mac demand over the last year due to people working and learning from home amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The “legacy node” issue relates to unexciting but crucial older tech still found in today’s devices, like the chips used to drive displays.
Recent, power cuts in China can also be a factor in the shortage of 16-inch MacBook Pro models. Several Apple suppliers had to halt production to comply with the country’s new energy regulations.
