Apple’s grip on suppliers weakens ahead of new MacBook Pros

Apple’s long-standing dominance over its global supply chain is showing signs of strain, as artificial intelligence (AI) companies increasingly outcompete the consumer electronics giant for critical components, according to a recent report by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ).

Suppliers of key parts such as advanced chips, DRAM and NAND memory are gaining leverage as demand from AI firms surges. These companies are committing large sums to secure semiconductors, memory, specialised glass fibre and other components, reshaping long-established supplier relationships. As a result, manufacturers that once prioritised Apple’s orders are now in a stronger position to demand higher prices, a shift that could eventually push up costs for Apple or erode its profit margins once its existing component inventories are depleted, as per the WSJ report.

The changing supply dynamics come as Apple is expected to introduce updated MacBook Pro models in the coming weeks. Mark Gurman, writing in his Power On newsletter, reported that refreshed versions of the MacBook Pro, featuring modest performance improvements rather than major design changes, are likely to be released during the macOS 26.3 software cycle, which runs from February through March. That timeline would place the launch before the end of March.

According to Gurman, the forthcoming models, internally identified as J714 and J716, are expected to retain the current form factor while offering faster processors. Another indication of an imminent update is the tightening availability of existing high-end MacBook Pro models on Apple’s online store, which has historically preceded new product releases.