Apple is experiencing a significant shortage in Mac models with upgraded Unified Memory due to a surge in demand linked to the popularity of OpenClaw, an open-source AI agent encouraging users to run their own AI models locally. Customers seeking high-memory configurations, such as the M3 Ultra Mac Studio, now face delivery delays of up to six weeks, while upgraded models like the MacBook Pros and Mac Minis have wait times of two to three weeks. This demand is compounded by ongoing memory shortages driven by AI hyperscalers and institutional buyers, as well as Apple’s ongoing challenges in securing memory supplies, according to CEO Tim Cook. The company’s Unified Memory architecture further enhances the appeal of these Macs for AI applications by allowing for more efficient processing without the limitations posed by traditional GPU configurations.
Apple faces Mac shortages as demand surges for OpenClaw AI
