Apple has been testing memory chips from ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT) in its iPhone and MacBook lines, according to a Wall Street Journal report. Laptop makers HP and Acer have already adopted CXMT chips in devices sold outside the United States, while Apple is in early talks with the Chinese supplier for products marketed in China and is awaiting White House clearance before proceeding.

The U.S. restrictions that prohibit technology transfer to CXMT, including detailed specifications, could block a custom supply deal; Apple can only purchase off‑the‑shelf parts and negotiate price, which may require redesigning hardware or accepting reduced performance. A bipartisan group of senators led by Chuck Schumer has asked Apple to rule out Chinese memory entirely, with a response due August 21.

CXMT has reached full-year capacity and is prioritizing domestic customers such as ByteDance, Tencent and Xiaomi, leaving limited room for new international orders. Its pricing matches or exceeds Micron, SK Hynix and Samsung, eroding any cost advantage for Apple, which raised iPhone‑free product prices in June citing memory cost growth from AI demand.

Because CXMT cannot supply cheaper, high‑volume chips, Apple faces a supply‑constrained, higher‑cost scenario that could force price hikes or lower performance, complicating its strategy to diversify memory sourcing amid tightening U.S. export rules.