Apple Raises Prices on MacBooks, iPads Amid Memory Chip Crunch

If your gadget wishlist suddenly feels heavier on the wallet, you’re not imagining it. Apple is raising prices on several of its most popular products, pointing to a sharp spike in memory and storage chip costs tied to the explosion of artificial intelligence infrastructure.The price hikes take effect immediately. Apple’s entry-level MacBook Neo jumps from $599 to $699, while its cheapest iPad rises from $349 to $449. The iPad Mini also gets a $100 bump, now selling for $599.Other products seeing increases include the Apple TV, now priced at $199, up from $129, the Vision Pro headset climbing to $3,699, and the HomePod speaker increasing to $349.Apple says the rapid growth of AI data centers has created an unprecedented demand for memory and storage components, pushing supply costs to record highs. Company officials say even Apple’s tightly controlled supply chain can’t fully shield consumers from the impact.CEO Tim Cook warned last week that price increases were likely unavoidable as the global chip market continues to tighten. Semiconductor makers like Micron Technology have reported strong earnings as demand from AI companies surges.Not everything is going up just yet. Apple says prices for iPhones and AirPods remain unchanged, at least for now. For more Coachella Valley News visit NBCPalmSprings.com