Apple tests Chinese memory chips from CXMT but must convince Washington

Apple has begun testing DRAM memory chips produced by ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT), the Chinese manufacturer that was only recently placed on the Pentagon's blacklist, in anticipation of potential use in devices intended for the Chinese domestic market. This was reported by the Financial Times, which had previously signaled the company's interest in the group's memory at the end of June. Meanwhile, Apple continues to press Washington for approval to use CXMT products.

In June, the U.S. Department of Defense included CXMT on the 1260H list, which features companies considered to be linked to the Chinese People's Liberation Army. Reuters reported in mid-June that the Trump administration had hesitated before adding the manufacturer, along with other names like DeepSeek, in order to avoid escalating tensions with Beijing; however, the current version of the list published on the Pentagon's website clearly includes it. Formally, Apple has no prohibitions against doing business with companies on the 1260H list, but without the go-ahead from the White House, it risks repercussions. The company has reached out to the U.S. government between late May and early June, utilizing its contacts in the capital.

Why Apple needs those chips

The move comes in response to the memory shortage affecting the sector. Apple already sources DRAM from Micron, Samsung, and SK Hynix, but price pressures have forced it to increase the prices of the iPad and Mac lineup. Tapping into CXMT’s production would help alleviate the scarcity.

The Chinese manufacturer has quickly risen in prominence. Until recently, it was relatively unknown outside its national borders and was racking up billions in losses; the memory supply crisis has brought it into the spotlight, and today it is the fourth-largest DRAM producer in the world after Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron. It counts at least 15 state shareholders, and most of its private funding is supported by public partners; it is also expected to go public with an aim to raise $4.3 billion.

If the president grants approval, Apple will still have to navigate objections from Congress: Representative John Moolenaar has already labeled the potential deal as 'a serious mistake.'