Apple MacBook Neo Faces Supply Shortages, Delays to May

Apple's newly launched MacBook Neo, the company's entry-level laptop priced at $599 for the base 256GB model, has exceeded expectations, prompting supply shortages and delivery delays extending into May. The device, available in Silver, Indigo, Blush, and Citrus colors, features an aluminum enclosure and runs on the A18 Pro chip, marking a significant push into the budget market.

The strong demand has caught Apple off guard, with initial inventory for the base variant already depleted, according to supply chain reports. The company has placed rush orders with manufacturers including Foxconn and Quanta in China and Vietnam to replenish stock. Officials at Apple have not released exact sales figures, but CEO Tim Cook noted that the MacBook line achieved its best launch week ever among new buyers. Analysts estimate sales could reach 10 million units this year, up from an initial projection of 7 million. The A18 Pro chip, a binned version from iPhone production with a five-core GPU, has also become a bottleneck, as Apple's reserves dwindle faster than anticipated.

Current orders from Apple's website show delivery dates from late April to early May across all configurations,...