Apple Discontinues $599 Mac Mini, Raising Starting Price to $799

Apple has discontinued the Mac Mini's base model with 256GB of storage, raising the computer's starting price to $799 from $599. The company removed the lower-priced option from its online store, according to reporting by MacRumors and confirmed by multiple sources.

The price increase reflects broader supply pressures affecting Apple's Mac lineup. According to Bloomberg, the adjustment comes as AI demand has strained processor availability, creating inventory shortages across the industry. The timing is particularly significant given that Apple CEO Tim Cook disclosed during an earnings call that chip shortages will continue to impact the company's Mac products going forward.

This move marks a notable shift in Apple's pricing strategy for its entry-level desktop computer. By eliminating the $599 option entirely rather than simply raising its price, Apple is effectively forcing consumers who want an affordable Mac Mini to spend $200 more than the previous baseline cost. The new $799 model presumably offers upgraded storage or other specifications compared to the discontinued entry-level version.

The decision underscores how AI-driven demand for computing hardware is reshaping the technology market. As companies and consumers rush to acquire equipment capable of handling artificial intelligence workloads, component suppliers face unprecedented pressure, forcing manufacturers to adjust their product lineups and pricing. For Mac Mini users seeking an affordable desktop option, the price increase represents a meaningful barrier to entry in Apple's computer ecosystem.