Apple Inc. shares fell on Thursday as the company faces mounting pressure from semiconductor supply shortages and surging memory costs.

The constraints have forced the tech giant to raise prices on key products, including the Mac mini, while extending wait times for customers.

These supply-side headwinds are now casting a shadow over the company's near-term sales forecast, despite strong underlying demand for its devices.

The market reaction underscores the fragility of the supply chain even for industry leaders.

While Apple recently reported quarterly results that exceeded analyst expectations for revenue and earnings per share, the stock retreated in extended trading as investors digested the operational challenges.

The current slide reflects a shift in focus from top-line growth to margin pressure and inventory availability.