Why Mac Pro might lack upgradable RAM

If you’re an old Machead like me, you probably think the ability to upgrade your RAM post-purchase is something you ought to be able to do.

Us old graybeards always got the minimum amount of RAM when purchasing a new Mac because Apple charged extortionate prices.

You’d upgrade it later with cut-price RAM off the internet. It was a surefire way to shave a few hundred dollars off a major purchase that was already making your eyes twitch.

But since Macs moved to Apple silicon, users can no longer do that. You get only as much RAM as you initially ordered: It can’t be upgraded at a later date.

This drives some people nuts. Why can’t you add more RAM? Why is Apple crippling these machines?

It has everything to do with Apple’s new computing architecture, which treats the CPU, GPU and RAM as a self-contained system-on-a-chip. You can learn about it in our top post.

Also in today's newsletter:

• Harrison Ford’s new Apple TV+ comedy Shrinking is a hit.

• Get 20% off Momax’s well-designed wireless charging stations.

• Don’t miss our review of a new selfie stick: It’s actually a clever and versatile camera accessory that does a bunch of things.

• What do you think of that iPhone Ultra mockup?

— Leander Kahney, EIC.

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