Apple has further reduced RAM configuration options for its desktop Macs as a global memory shortage continues to worsen. The M3 Ultra Mac Studio is now only available with 96GB of RAM, with the 256GB option eliminated entirely. Both the M3 Mac Studio and M4 Max Mac Studio face delivery estimates of 9 to 10 weeks.

The memory constraints extend across Apple's desktop lineup. The M4 Pro Mac mini now caps at 48GB RAM, while the standard M4 version restricts buyers to just 16GB or 24GB configurations. Last week's removal of the 256GB SSD option effectively increased the entry-level Mac mini price from $599 to $799.

CEO Tim Cook acknowledged Apple dramatically miscalculated demand for machines capable of running local AI and agentic tools. The company expects supply shortages to persist for several months as memory costs rise. Intense competition for memory chips from AI server manufacturers has driven up prices industry-wide, forcing Apple to conserve supply by eliminating higher-tier configurations.