Apple’s retail shelves may be looking a little emptier than usual. According to a new report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, several Apple products are running low across stores ahead of the company’s expected early March announcements. The timing is interesting. Apple is widely tipped to host product reveals on March 2, 3 and 4, and inventory shortages often hint at incoming refreshes. Among the products reportedly affected are M4 MacBook Air models, higher end MacBook Pro variants, iPad Air units, select Watch bands and even the Studio Display. When Apple starts clearing stock of popular devices, it usually means something new is around the corner.
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M4 MacBook Air shortage hints at refresh
The most noticeable gap is said to be the MacBook Air. This is Apple’s best selling laptop and often the first choice for students, creators and office users. When a mainstream product like this starts disappearing from stores, it usually signals a refresh. Apple may be preparing a minor upgrade with improved internals or small feature tweaks rather than a complete redesign.
More surprising is the reported shortage of the MacBook Pro models powered by M4 Pro and M4 Max chips. These machines only launched in late 2024, so a quick jump to M5 Pro or M5 Max feels unlikely. Instead, Apple could be adjusting inventory to make space for a new category.
Rumours suggest a more affordable MacBook powered by the A18 Pro chip could debut soon. If that happens, it would mark a big shift in Apple’s laptop strategy and could challenge mid range Windows laptops on both price and performance.
Stock constraints have also been reported for the iPad Air and the Studio Display. Both products are due for updates, and a chip upgrade seems like the most likely move.
Apple’s March 4 event could explain everything
On a related note, Apple recently confirmed a March 4 event with in person gatherings planned in New York, London and Shanghai. Unlike traditional keynotes, there is no confirmed global livestream yet. That detail suggests Apple may be planning a more hands on showcase rather than a standard stage presentation.
One of the biggest expected announcements is the iPhone 17e. This device is tipped to feature a 6.1 inch OLED display and possibly adopt the Dynamic Island design, replacing the older notch style. Reports indicate it could run on the new A19 chip and bring improved AI capabilities, better front camera performance and MagSafe support. If priced aggressively, it could become a major volume driver in markets like India.
Mac updates are also expected to take centre stage. Alongside a potential low cost MacBook powered by an A series processor, refreshed MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models with next generation chips are likely. Updated iPads and possibly new display hardware may also appear.
Taken together, the retail shortages and confirmed March event strongly suggest that Apple is preparing for a broad hardware refresh. If you are planning to buy a MacBook or iPad right now, waiting a few weeks might make more sense. As always, these details are based on reports and leaks, so unless there is an official confirmation from Apple, take this information with a pinch of salt.
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Divyanshi Sharma
Divyanshi Sharma is a media and communications professional with over 8 years of experience in the industry. With a strong background in tech journalism, she has covered everything from the latest gadgets to gaming trends and brings a sharp editorial lens to every story. She holds a master’s diploma in mass communication and a bachelor’s degree in English literature. Her love for writing and gaming began early—often skipping classes to try out the latest titles—which naturally evolved into a career at the intersection of technology and storytelling. When she’s not working, you’ll likely find her exploring virtual worlds on her console or PC, or testing out a new laptop she managed to get her hands on. View Full Profile
