Apple is reportedly considering eliminating the $599 base MacBook Neo model as component costs continue to rise. Taiwan tech columnist Tim Culpan reveals that cutting the entry-level 256GB configuration is among Apple's options, which would effectively increase the laptop's starting price by $100 without changing individual model pricing. The Neo currently offers a 256GB model at $599 and a 512GB version at $699.

This potential move mirrors recent decisions with other Mac lines. Apple has already discontinued the Mac Studio with 512GB RAM and removed the Mac mini's 256GB storage option, pushing its starting price from $599 to $799. These changes reflect widespread memory chip shortages and increased demand as AI data center construction strains supply chains.

The pricing pressure stems from Apple's manufacturing ambitions. The company aims to boost production capacity to 10 million units, double original forecasts, despite depleted A18 Pro chip inventories. With TSMC's limited 3nm capacity consumed by AI orders, Apple faces higher production costs. As an alternative to eliminating the base model, the company may introduce new color options to absorb potential price increases without alienating customers.