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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Meet the matching Xbox Wireless Controller X25 Special Edition

Microsoft

Alongside the launch of the new console, Xbox introduced a matching controller. The new Xbox Wireless Controller X25 Special Edition features the same translucent "OG Green" and the Xbox 25 logo. It also gets the green glowing logo button and the original ABXY colours.

"...every detail calls back to the beginning, including the bumpers [honouring] the original black and white buttons on the original 'Duke' controller," Microsoft said. The controller and the console will be sold in select markets in November, with the controller available for purchase separately.  

SOURCE | VIA

Xbox announces limited-edition console to celebrate 25th anniversary

Microsoft

Xbox is commemorating its 25th anniversary with a new special-edition Xbox console. The Xbox Series X25 Limited Edition takes inspiration from the original Xbox console and comes with a transparent green casing. It still has the same internals as the Xbox Series X, including 1TB of storage, but it has other callbacks to the game console's history. This includes the Xbox logo that lights up in green, unlike recent Series X models, and the Xbox 25th anniversary logo in front.

Microsoft also created a matching controller to go with this new limited edition console. The company has yet to release pricing, but it will be available in select markets starting in November.

SOURCE | VIA

Try out 'Totally Reliable Delivery Service' and 'Hell Let Loose' this weekend during Microsoft Xbox's Free Play Days

Source: Microsoft

Microsoft Xbox's Free Play Days gives you a taste of a few titles this weekend, including Totally Reliable Delivery Service, Hell Let Loose, Sea of Thieves, and more. Of course, you'll need an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Premium or Essential subscription to play from Thursday, March 19, 2026, through Sunday, March 22, 2026.

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