Apple Seeks U.S. Approval to Source Memory Chips From CXMT and YMTC

*Apple is negotiating purchases from two Chinese memory makers to ease a global shortage that has already forced price increases on its devices.*

Apple is in active talks to buy DRAM and NAND chips from ChangXin Memory Technologies and Yangtze Memory Technologies. The company has also asked U.S. officials for clearance to proceed, Bloomberg reported.

The discussions are ongoing and no agreement has been signed. Earlier reporting from the Financial Times and South Korean outlets had already flagged Apple’s interest in the two suppliers as a route to lower-cost memory.

A worldwide memory shortage is the immediate trigger. Chip producers have shifted capacity toward high-margin parts for AI servers, tightening supply for consumer electronics and pushing up component prices. Apple responded by raising prices on Macs, iPads and other hardware.

CXMT and YMTC are the only Chinese firms with meaningful production of advanced DRAM and NAND. Both remain smaller than Samsung, SK Hynix and Micron, yet their prices are lower. Apple’s outreach therefore reflects a straightforward cost calculation rather than a strategic pivot.

Reactions

No statements from CXMT, YMTC or U.S. trade officials appear in the reporting so far. Industry observers note that any final deal would still require export-control review because the chips could fall under existing restrictions on advanced semiconductor technology.

Why it matters

Apple’s move shows how acute the memory squeeze has become for the largest consumer-electronics buyer. If the talks succeed, the company could stabilize component costs and slow further price hikes. If regulators block the purchases, Apple will face continued margin pressure and limited supply options while the AI-driven shortage persists.

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Sources:

• MacRumors
• Bloomberg Technology

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