Apple tests CXMT memory chips for iPhones and MacBooks amid AI-driven DRAM shortage

Apple has begun technical qualification testing of DRAM memory chips made by ChangXin Memory Technologies, China’s largest domestic memory producer and a company the Pentagon has designated as a Chinese military company. The chips are being evaluated for use in iPhones and MacBooks sold specifically in the Chinese market. The move comes as AI-driven demand has sent global DRAM prices climbing, squeezing margins for every major device maker on the planet. Apple appears to be hedging its bets on supply while simultaneously lobbying US officials for permission to use CXMT chips more broadly. The CXMT factor Founded in 2016, CXMT has grown remarkably fast. The company now holds roughly 7-8% of the global DRAM market. CXMT’s trajectory hit a new peak on July 27, 2026, when it debuted on Shanghai’s STAR Market. The IPO raised approximately $8.6B, and shares surged more than 466% on their first day of trading. That briefly made CXMT the most valuable listed company in China. As of early August 2026, Apple has not confirmed any commercial use of CXMT chips. The testing remains confined to devices destined for China. Washington is not amused CXMT sits on the US Defense Department’s list of ...