Apple Tests China’s CXMT Memory for iPhones and MacBooks

Apple is testing memory from China's CXMT for its iPhone and MacBook product lines as it considers diversifying its memory supplier amid tighter supplies, higher costs, and increased U.S. scrutiny. The Wall Street Journal reported that Apple has already been testing DRAM from ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT) for iPhones and MacBooks, with early discussions exploring its use in devices sold in China.

Rising memory costs have prompted Apple to seek alternative suppliers, and the U.S. government's restrictions on technical information sharing with CXMT limit the company's options. CXMT has been expanding its presence in China's chip industry, making it a more viable option for major hardware manufacturers. However, the Pentagon lists CXMT as a Chinese military company, and a bipartisan Senate letter urges Apple to keep certain chips out of its products.

Lawmakers seek details on the testing and potential uses of the components, with responses requested by August 21. Tightened semiconductor controls have also added a new hurdle for any commercial relationship between Apple and CXMT. If Apple moves forward with CXMT components, they may initially be limited to China-market devices, potentially creating extra work for organizations managing hardware fleets across multiple markets.

The testing could also impact DRAM availability for other hardware manufacturers, particularly in the context of AI-driven memory demand. If Apple confirms a production order from CXMT, it would provide a better understanding of lead times and supplier exposure, prompting a reassessment of its hardware sourcing strategy.