New Mac Studio Orders Face 1-2 Month Delays Amid Refresh Speculation

Apple customers ordering new Mac Studio workstations are facing extended wait times, with shipping estimates stretching 1-2 months for many configurations. This supply constraint emerges alongside credible reports of an impending hardware refresh, suggesting Apple may be winding down production of current M2 Ultra models ahead of a new release.

Extended Wait Times Across Configurations

Current Apple Store listings show significant delays:

• High-RAM models: Configurations with 512GB RAM show worst-case estimates of March 27-April 3 delivery
• Mid-tier models: Systems with 128-256GB RAM face 3-4 week delays
• Base configurations: Entry-level units remain available for immediate shipment

The supply constraints appear most pronounced for configurations featuring Apple's M2 Ultra chip paired with maximum memory options. Customers configuring systems through Apple's online store see dynamically adjusted delivery dates reflecting these constraints.

Refresh Timing and Industry Context

Multiple factors could explain the tightening supply:

1. Imminent Refresh: Bloomberg reports a new Mac Studio with M5-series chips could launch in H1 2026. This aligns with Apple's typical product cycle and inventory patterns preceding hardware updates.

2. Component Shortages: Industry-wide DDR5 memory constraints continue affecting high-end workstations. The Mac Studio's maximum 512GB RAM configuration uses specialized modules facing global supply challenges.

3. Market Shifts: Growing demand for AI development hardware (like OpenClaw/Clawdbot clusters) may be diverting components traditionally used in workstations.

What Buyers Should Consider

With Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) typically occurring in June, and historical precedent for spring hardware launches, these delays strongly suggest new hardware is approaching. The current Mac Studio remains a powerful machine, but buyers needing maximum performance may want to:

• Evaluate urgency: Consider if base configurations meet immediate needs
• Monitor announcements: Watch for Apple events in March/April
• Check refurbished channels: Apple's refurbished store occasionally has faster-shipping options

While Apple hasn't officially commented on the delays, the combination of shipping constraints and multiple reports from supply chain sources points toward an updated Mac Studio running Apple's next-generation silicon arriving sooner rather than later.