Apple has begun testing DRAM chips from CXMT, a company on the Pentagon blacklist. The firm has lobbied the U.S. government for clearance amid a steep memory chip crunch. Tim Cook explained that the recent price hikes were forced by global supply constraints.

The move follows earlier reports of Apple evaluating NAND chips from YMTC for iPhones sold in China. By limiting CXMT components to China‑market devices, Apple seeks to satisfy U.S. lawmakers who fear Chinese suppliers could strengthen state‑backed rivals.

For Chinese consumers, the shift could translate into marginally lower prices if Apple secures cheaper DRAM. Devices sold outside China will continue to use approved suppliers, keeping price trajectories unchanged for global markets.

The development underscores the tension between supply‑chain resilience and national‑security concerns. If the U.S. loosens restrictions, other U.S. firms may follow suit, potentially easing bottlenecks but also intensifying competition with Chinese tech giants.