Apple is reportedly short on DRAM just weeks before its iPhone 18 unveiling, scrambling to secure additional stock. Facing supply constraints, the company turned to Chinese RAM manufacturer CXMT, a US‑blacklisted firm that sells memory to Xiaomi and other Chinese Gru. First, Apple had to request explicit permission from the Federal Government to buy DRAM from CXMT, as US companies normally cannot do business with blacklisted entities.

Second, Apple sought a lower price, but CXMT countered with the same rates it offers to its key suppliers – Micron, SK Hynix, and Samsung. যুদ্ধ. CXMT’s stance is understandable: Apple relies on DRAM for upcoming devices, including the rumored folding iPhone Ultra, yet CXMT already has long‑term contracts with Xiaomi and Huawei, giving it negotiating power. Consequently, Apple must secure government approval and then accept a price that matches its other suppliers.

This situation underscores the complexities of global memory supply chains and the regulatory hurdles US firms face when dealing with Chinese manufacturers.