Apple has quietly raised prices for some of its most popular devices worldwide, catching consumers off guard in the midst of the ongoing memory crisis.
Which Devices Have Been Affected?
The iPhone 14 series, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro 13-inch, and several iPad models have seen a price hike in various regions, including the US, Europe, and Asia. The cost of these devices varies depending on the storage and memory configuration chosen by the consumer.
The entry-level 64GB iPhone 14 now starts at **$799** in the US, a **$100** increase from its original price. The higher-end 512GB model has also seen a price bump, now costing **$1,249** instead of the previous **$1,099**. The iPad Air also joins the list, with a **$100** increase in its base model, which now starts at **$599**.
Apple’s Explanation for the Price Hike
Apple hasn’t officially stated the reason for the price increase, but industry insiders point to the ongoing memory crisis, also known as “RAMmageddon,” as the primary cause. The shortage of vital components like DRAM and NAND flash memory has led to a surge in prices, forcing manufacturers to adjust their pricing strategies.
This move marks the second price hike for Apple in a short span, following a similar increase in March due to supply chain disruptions and rising component costs.
What This Means for Consumers
If you were planning to upgrade to a new Apple device or purchase one with higher storage capacity, be prepared for a higher price tag. This development is likely to impact the budget of many consumers who were already expecting a hit from the memory crisis.
It’s also worth noting that this price hike might not be limited to Apple. Other tech brands may follow suit as they also struggle to maintain profitability amidst the ongoing memory shortage.
