Apple and Microsoft hike device prices as AI infrastructure monopolizes chip supply

Apple and Microsoft have raised prices across their hardware lineups, citing an unprecedented global shortage of memory and storage chips driven by the artificial intelligence boom. On Thursday, Apple increased the price of its entry-level MacBook Neo by $150, bringing the starting price to $949 in Canada, while also raising prices for iPads, HomePods, and Apple TV devices.

In a statement to CBC, Apple warned that the consumer electronics industry is facing an "unprecedented challenge," noting the company has never seen component costs rise this quickly. The price surge stems from major chipmakers like Samsung and Micron shifting production capacity away from consumer electronics to prioritize high-margin AI orders for companies like Nvidia.

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Review: MacBook Neo

By Gadjo C. Sevilla

Apple’s MacBook Neo opens up a new segment for premium-built, performant, and generally attainable laptops not just for students, but for entire markets where new Apple devices have been priced out of people’s budgets.

Out of the box, the Neo provides the complete premium Apple unboxing experience. No expense was spared in the presentation and the unboxing experience. A tiny ‘hello’ tab greets new users before they unwrap the laptop, and in certain markets you get a 20W USB-C charger and a braided cable.

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