Apple Discontinues 256GB Mac Mini Amid RAM Crisis

Apple has officially discontinued the 256GB variant of its Mac Mini, as announced on May 1, 2026. The entry-level model was available for €719 in Spain and $599 in the U.S. but has now been replaced with a higher-cost version starting at €969 and $799 due to a significant RAM supply shortage. This situation reflects broader issues impacting the availability and pricing of essential computing components, particularly driven by the surging demand for AI infrastructure.

The discontinuation of this basic model has serious implications for consumers, especially students and professionals on tighter budgets, as they now face a price increase of over €200 or equivalent. Furthermore, delays in delivery times are compounding the issue, pushing shipments to late May or early June. Apple’s CEO noted the ongoing constraints on Mac Mini and Mac Studio supply and hinted at higher memory costs due to the rising integration of these devices in AI applications. This decision underscores the growing dependency on foreign memory suppliers, while also highlighting the tension between expanding AI capabilities and sustaining product availability.