This kinda makes sense though, as cruel as it sounds.

The base $599 config is 256GB storage and specifically omits parts for the TouchID sensor/keyboard to work. The premium config comes with TouchID and the larger 512 storage out of the box.

They also have just had to re-spin a whole new run of A18 Pro chips just for the Neo due to the demand they didn't expect for their binned chip. This move will mean they only now need to run a single SKU motherboard line (512 + TouchID) for all future Neos and allow them wiggle room with things like new runs of varied colors to be able to still meet the high demand for the larger configuration.