Apple Discontinues 256GB Mac Mini, Raises Starting Price to $799

Apple has discontinued the 256GB storage option for the Mac mini, resulting in a higher starting price for the desktop computer. In the United States, the Mac mini now begins at $799, featuring the M4 chip, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage. Previously, the base model was priced at $599 with 256GB of storage.

The removal of the 256GB configuration aligns with ongoing supply constraints affecting Apple's desktop lineup. In March, the company also ceased offering the Mac Studio with 512GB of RAM.

During a recent earnings call, Apple CEO Tim Cook acknowledged the supply challenges, stating it may take "several months" to balance supply and demand for the Mac mini and Mac Studio. He attributed the constraints to higher-than-expected demand, noting that both models are "amazing platforms for AI and agentic tools."

These adjustments occur amid a global memory chip shortage, driven by increased demand from companies building AI server facilities. Cook indicated that Apple anticipates "significantly higher memory costs" in the current quarter, suggesting that limited RAM availability is influencing the company's product decisions.