Apple Delays Launch of M5 Mac Studio and Touchscreen MacBook Pro
Apple is facing delays for its much-anticipated M5 Mac Studio and touchscreen MacBook Pro, pushing the release dates further than expected. The new Mac Studio is now set to launch in October, while the touchscreen MacBook Pro may not arrive until early 2027. These delays are primarily due to a worldwide shortage of RAM and SSD storage, which has affected many tech companies.
Initially, Apple aimed for a mid-2026 release for the Mac Studio, but this has been postponed. The touchscreen MacBook Pro, which was already projected for late 2026 to early 2027, is now leaning toward the latter part of that timeframe.
AI Data Centers Straining Supply
This shortage isn’t just a problem for Apple; it’s hitting the entire tech industry. The rapid growth of AI data centers around the world has increased the demand for RAM and storage, leaving less available for consumer devices. Reports suggest that Apple has had to agree to pay double the previous rate to Samsung for DRAM chips just to maintain some level of supply.
Even with Apple’s strong supply chain management, they have not been immune to the challenges. Many configurations of the Mac Studio and Mac mini are already backordered for over a month, with some options completely sold out. Initially, many believed this signaled a new model was on the way, but it seems that tight supply is the actual reason.
Software Ready, But Hardware Delayed
Interestingly, the software for the new touchscreen MacBook Pro is nearly finished. Features like new contextual menus and adjustable toolbar buttons are set to be included in the upcoming macOS 27, which will launch this fall. This shows that Apple’s engineers have been prepared; the holdup is mainly due to the need to ensure enough hardware is available at launch.
For anyone interested in the new Mac Studio, October is now the earliest expected timeframe, while fans of the touchscreen MacBook Pro may have to wait until 2027.
