Apple’s MacBook Neo is facing significant shipping delays as demand exceeds supply. Launched on March 4 and shipped starting March 11, the device is now backordered by two to three weeks across all configurations on Apple’s website.
Retail price set at $599 makes the MacBook Neo the most affordable Mac available. It was designed to appeal to budget-conscious consumers and first-time buyers, but the initial production plan of 5 million units for 2026 has been doubled to 10 million due to overwhelming demand.
Reports indicate that the MacBook Neo experienced the best launch week for first-time Mac customers, leading to immediate sellouts. Currently, customers in many metropolitan areas face in-store pickup delays of three to four weeks. Some 512GB models are available on Amazon within days, while other configurations see similar backlogs.
Analysts attribute the delays to Apple’s miscalculated demand rather than an overarching industry memory shortage. A report suggested that Apple may run out of A18 Pro chips, essential for the Neo’s operation, as supply struggles to meet demand.
The situation contrasts sharply with delays in the Mac mini and Mac Studio lines, which are experiencing wait times of up to five months due to a global DRAM shortage linked to AI server requirements. Speculation arises that if Apple cannot resolve its chip supply issues, the company may miss a crucial opportunity to redefine the Mac in a post-AI landscape.
Asus CFO Nick Wu remarked on the unprecedented market reaction, calling the Neo’s success “a shock to the entire market.” Competing manufacturers may face similar challenges, with DRAM shortages potentially delaying their responses until late 2027.
Apple is expected to discuss its supply chain challenges when it reports quarterly earnings on April 30. The company currently faces a pivotal moment in balancing demand for the MacBook Neo with available production capabilities.
