IPad and MacBook production has reportedly been slowed due to global chip shortages

Apple is facing a global shortage of certain components for some of its MacBook and iPad models, causing the Cupertino-based technology giant and its suppliers to delay production of its products, according to a new report from Apple. Nikkei Asia

According to the report, MacBook production is hampered by the shortage of chips mounted on the PCB prior to final assembly, which is an important step in the overall manufacturing process. ‌IPad‌ production is affected by display and display component shortages, the report adds.

In response to the backlash in production, Apple has delayed parts orders for the two devices until the second half of the year. Although MacBook and ‌iPad‌ production is directly affected, iPhone production is not affected so far. However, industry sources say the range of ‌iPhone‌ components is limited.

Production plans for Apple’s iconic iPhones have so far not been affected by the supply shortage, although the supply of some components for the devices is “quite tight,” two sources said. Overall, the shortage of components remains a supply chain problem for Apple and has not yet impacted the availability of products to consumers, Nikkei has learned.

Apple is widely expected to launch new iPad Pro models and possibly redesigned MacBook Pros with Apple silicon in the coming months. Bloomberg has reported that new ‌iPad‌ models with dramatically improved performance and a new mini LED display are just weeks away from launch.

While Nikkei does not specify which ‌iPad‌ and MacBook models are affected as a result of the shortage, it certainly seems likely that the delayed assembly of the products could result in some form of delayed Apple product announcement.