Apple raised external SSD prices up to 300% due to global DRAM and SSD shortages from AI demand, with limited inventory.

Apple has raised prices on external SSDs sold through its stores and website, with some models seeing increases of up to 300%, due to a global shortage of DRAM and SSDs fueled by high demand from AI data centers. Prices for 1TB and 4TB SanDisk drives jumped from $120 to $360 and $500 to $1,200, respectively, while inventory remains extremely limited. The shortage, driven by manufacturers prioritizing high-margin AI chips, is affecting consumer storage across Apple and major retailers, with no immediate relief expected through 2026.