Apple is exploring Chinese memory chip providers like ChangXin Memory Technologies to diversify its supply amid a global shortage and increasing geopolitical risks, prompting US government scrutiny.
Apple is testing memory chips from ChangXin Memory Technologies as it seeks to broaden supply options for future iPhone and MacBook production, according to reports from The Wall Street Journal and other publications. The move comes as a worldwide memory shortage, driven by demand from artificial intelligence infrastructure, has pushed prices higher and forced electronics makers to look beyond their usual suppliers.
The discussions are understood to focus on devices sold in China, where Apple could use CXMT components if it can adapt its product designs to suit the Chinese company’s off-the-shelf parts. That would avoid asking a US customer to make bespoke chips, an area where American rules place tighter limits on business with Chinese firms. Apple is also said to be seeking approval from the US government before proceeding further.
Bloomberg previously reported that Apple was also examining supply from Yangtze Memory Technologies, another major Chinese chip maker. The broader strategy appears to be a supply-chain hedge rather than a full shift away from Samsung, SK Hynix and Micron, which remain Apple’s established memory partners. Industry reports say CXMT has expanded quickly and now accounts for a meaningful share of global DRAM wafer capacity, with more growth expected as new plants come online.
The plan carries clear political risk. CXMT and YMTC have both appeared on the US Department of Defense’s 1260H list, which identifies companies suspected of links to China’s military. That status could complicate Apple’s efforts even if the company is not yet committed to commercial orders. Reuters has reported that the Trump administration would be likely to face pressure to scrutinise any such arrangement closely, given Washington’s wider push to protect advanced technology and reduce reliance on Chinese supply chains.
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