On Tuesday, Apple introduced its latest MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models, featuring the new M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, promising significant advancements in performance. The M5 Pro chip boasts an impressive 18-core CPU, which Apple claims delivers more than four times the peak GPU compute power for artificial intelligence compared to its predecessor.
However, consumers may be taken aback by the new pricing structure for the MacBook Pro series, which now sees increases ranging from $100 to $400. The entry-level MacBook Pro with the M5 Pro chip is priced at $2,199 for the 14-inch version and $2,699 for the 16-inch model, up from $1,999 and $2,499 respectively for last year’s M4 Pro models. Those opting for the higher-end M5 Max chips will find themselves facing even steeper prices, starting at $3,599 for the 14-inch and $3,899 for the 16-inch versions — both reflecting a $400 surge from their earlier counterparts.
The MacBook Air line also experiences a price hike, with the 13-inch model now starting at $1,099, an increase from $999, and the 15-inch model beginning at $1,299, which is $100 more than the previous year’s base price.
This price escalation can be attributed to a growing demand for computers and data centres due to the rise of artificial intelligence, leading to a persistent shortage of RAM. This shortage has resulted in a significant rise in memory prices, affecting various sectors. Analysts forecast a decline in smartphone shipments this year, which is likely to impact related hardware, including laptops. Apple’s pricing strategies may provide insight into how the broader tech market will navigate these challenges.
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