Apple is reportedly facing difficulties securing DRAM as the company prepares for its annual iPhone update cycle. With the launch of the iPhone 18 series and iPhone Ultra less than six weeks away, assemblers are urgently placing DRAM orders.

While Apple primarily relies on Micron for LPDDR5X memory, with SK hynix and Samsung as secondary suppliers, recent reports indicate negotiations with Chinese memory giant CXMT. Apple sought to negotiate lower prices for LPDDR5X memory from CXMT, but the Chinese company rejected the proposed discount. This marks a shift in negotiation power towards suppliers amid high demand.

CXMT's DRAM output is largely committed to Chinese customers, including hyperscalers and AI labs, who are willing to pay current market rates. It is uncertain if Apple has agreed to these prices, as DRAM scarcity is expected to increase the leverage of manufacturers in the coming year.