Apple reportedly testing CXMT memory chips for devices in China

Apple is reportedly testing DRAM memory chips made by Chinese semiconductor company ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT) for use in devices marketed in China. The US tech giant has reportedly entered the testing phase for CXMT chips on a number of its devices. At the same time, the company is also said to be seeking approval from the US government to use the chips. While there is no regulation prohibiting Apple from doing business with a company on the 1260H list, it could face political pressure if it proceeds with the plan without US government backing. The report states Apple contacted the US government in late May or early June to discuss the use of CXMT products and leveraged its communication network in Washington to obtain White House approval. In mid-June, the Trump administration had postponed adding CXMT and several other Chinese firms, including DeepSeek, to the list in order to avoid escalating tensions with Beijing. However, the latest list published by the US Department of Defense now includes CXMT. CXMT is currently considered the world’s fourth-largest DRAM producer, after Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron. The company is also reported to have at least 15 state-owned shareholders, with most of its investment funds backed by partners linked to the Chinese government. A partnership with CXMT is seen as a way for Apple to address ongoing memory supply challenges. Apple currently sources DRAM from Micron, Samsung, and SK Hynix, but has still had to raise prices on some iPad and Mac products due to component shortages.