Apple’s supply chain is making preparations for the forthcoming launch of new iPhones and Mac devices.
According to reports, Apple, the tech giant based in Cupertino, is gearing up to introduce new Mac models featuring the M3 chip later this year. The upcoming lineup is expected to include the M3 chip in the 13-inch MacBook Pro, 13-inch MacBook Air, and 24-inch iMac. Additionally, there are indications that the Mac mini and 15-inch MacBook Air will also receive updates with the M3 chip in the coming future.
According to a report from DigiTimes, semiconductor backend companies like ASE Technology Holdings (ASEH) and CHPT are expected to experience sales growth in the third quarter of 2023. This growth is attributed to Apple’s supply chain gearing up for the upcoming launch of new iPhones and Mac devices.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggests that the first Macs featuring the M3 chip could potentially be launched in October. Consequently, Apple’s supply chain is likely preparing for these devices during the third quarter. Although Apple has not officially announced the M3 chip, it is speculated to be manufactured using TSMC’s 3nm process, promising significant improvements in performance and power efficiency compared to previous M-series chips built on TSMC’s 5nm process.
As per recent reports, Apple is said to be preparing for the launch of a new retail store service in August. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple retail store staff will offer customers the convenience of home delivery options while placing orders, as opposed to the conventional method of carrying purchased products home.
According to Gurman, Apple’s EasyPay machines, which are used for in-store purchases, will soon offer a home shipping option for the first time. This new feature aims to enhance the purchasing experience by providing users with the convenience of having bulky products like iMacs or Mac Pros delivered to their homes. Additionally, the home shipping option allows the store to complete the sale even if the item is currently out of stock.
Presently, Apple store staff can assist customers in ordering larger or out-of-stock items by utilizing a shop floor demo Mac or iPad, or by accessing the web through their EasyPay device. Gurman suggests that this new shipping option could potentially lead to reduced physical space requirements for stock in future Apple stores.
