Apple Tests Chinese Memory Chips for iPhone, MacBook Amid AI-Driven Supply Crunch

Apple has begun testing memory chips manufactured by China’s ChangXin Memory Technologies—known as CXMT—across multiple production lines, including those for iPhone and MacBook, according to a Reuters report citing information from The Wall Street Journal.

Scope of the evaluation

The evaluation extends beyond a single product category and includes preliminary discussions between Apple and CXMT on incorporating the chips into certain devices intended for sale within China. Reuters stated it was unable to independently verify the details. Neither Apple nor CXMT responded to requests for comment, confirming the initiative remains exploratory and does not constitute an announcement of supplier adoption or commencement of commercial supply.

AI-driven pressure reshapes memory supply chains

This development coincides with intensifying strain on global memory supplies, driven by surging demand from artificial intelligence data centers. That surge is diverting memory allocations away from consumer electronics and computing hardware. HP and Acer have already integrated CXMT memory chips into devices sold outside the United States to mitigate component shortages. CXMT is also exploring construction of a second memory fabrication plant in Beijing to expand output capacity.

Potential implications for Apple’s supply chain

If Apple proceeds with CXMT, the Chinese firm would gain significant commercial traction within one of the world’s most rigorous and closely managed supply chains. The move would further illustrate how the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure is directly influencing the composition of suppliers for everyday consumer devices.