{
  "id": 1050719,
  "title": "Apple has a plan to fix its memory chip problem, but the US government says no",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/15/apple-has-a-plan-to-fix-its-memory-chip-problem-but-the-us-government",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-08-15T13:45:17.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Digital Trends",
    "slug": "digital-trends",
    "url": "https://www.digitaltrends.com/phones/apple-has-a-plan-to-fix-its-memory-chip-problem-but-the-us-government-says-no/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Apple is facing a memory chip shortage, with prices surging due to the global chip shortage. The company is seeking alternative suppliers, considering options from China-based CXMT and YMTC manufacturers. However, the US government, through Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, has expressed opposition to this idea, stating that Apple should explore other means to address the shortage. Lutnick's comments have drawn criticism from lawmakers, and the administration's stance has become clearer. Apple has been testing DRAM from CXMT and considering YMTC as alternative suppliers, but these companies are on the US Commerce Department's Entity List and designated as Chinese military companies. This has complicated the situation further, as Apple would need government approval to work with these suppliers, potentially encountering US export restrictions if customization is required.",
  "summary": "Apple is hunting for new memory suppliers as a global shortage squeezes availability. Two Chinese chipmakers could help, but Washington is pushing Apple to find another solution.",
  "key_points": [
    "Apple seeks alternative memory chip suppliers to address shortage",
    "US government opposes Apple's plan to work with Chinese military companies",
    "Opposition raises concerns about export restrictions for potential suppliers"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}