Apple iPad and MacBook production hit by shortages

Another chip shortage story to kick off the day. This time it's about how Apple is feeling the brunt of the worldwide semiconductor supply issues.

iPad and MacBook production delayed

Nikkei Asia writes Apple products may hit the market later than previously expected because Apple can't get enough volume manufactured. The newsgroup claims the production of some MacBook and iPad products have been postponed because of shortages.

MacBook production for example is affected by component shortages, which are causing delays in the mounting of chips on the PCB before final assembly. The iPad lineup is also affected due to shortages of certain display types and display components. Some production has been pushed to the second half of this year. It's unknown if this primarily affects new or existing products.

Apple is known for its supply chain expertise, so Nikkei Asia says it's remarkable that the firm is now also heavily impacted.

As a result of the delay, Apple has pushed back a portion of component orders for the two devices from the first half of this year to the second half, the people said. Industry sources and experts say the delays are a sign that the chip shortage is growing more serious and could impact smaller tech players even more heavily.

Apple is known for its expertise in managing one of the world's most complicated supply chains, and for the speed with which it can mobilize suppliers. This has helped the company withstand a global component shortage that is already squeezing automakers and electronics makers alike.

iPhone production on the other hand isn't affected yet by shortages, but the supply of certain iPhone components is said to be "quite tight."