Apple is evaluating memory chips from China’s Changxin Memory Technologies (CXMT) for use in its iPhones and MacBooks, as rising demand for AI technology intensifies pressure on global memory supplies. Discussions with CXMT are ongoing as Apple seeks to secure approval from the White House before advancing with any agreements involving the Chinese chipmaker.
Testing of CXMT memory chips is focused on devices intended for sale in China. Apple’s move is prompted by escalating memory chip prices, which the company attributes to surging AI-driven demand. By adding a Chinese supplier, Apple aims to reduce supply risk and offset higher costs caused by ongoing shortages.
The current supply crunch is largely the result of major suppliers, including Samsung Electronics, SK hynix, and Micron, prioritizing the production of advanced memory for AI data centers. This shift has tightened the availability of general-purpose memory used in consumer electronics such as smartphones and computers.
Efforts to source from CXMT, however, are complicated by U.S. export control rules. These regulations prohibit American firms from transferring technology or technical details to CXMT, restricting Apple’s ability to request custom memory designs tailored for its devices.
Apple is proceeding cautiously, seeking explicit White House approval to prevent any political repercussions. Previously, Apple also sought permission from the Trump administration to work with Chinese chipmakers for products sold outside the U.S.
Concerns persist among U.S. policymakers that deals with leading American companies could accelerate CXMT’s technological progress and provide financial resources, potentially benefiting China’s military and undermining the position of domestic producers like Micron Technology, which is expanding manufacturing in the U.S. The Pentagon lists CXMT among entities it associates with the Chinese military.
Despite ongoing talks, analysts highlight that CXMT’s current production is operating at near full capacity for this year, suggesting little immediate relief for Apple’s memory chip supply issues. Moreover, industry evaluations indicate that CXMT’s manufacturing remains behind market leaders in terms of technology. The firm is planning to double its capacity by 2028, yet its products often carry price tags comparable to—or above—those of established global suppliers, driven by constrained supply and higher production costs.
