Apple tests China’s CXMT memory chips for iPhones and MacBooks, report says

Sunday 09 August 2026 - 15:00

By: Sahili Aya

Apple tests China’s CXMT memory chips for iPhones and MacBooks, report says

Apple has been testing memory chips produced by Chinese semiconductor maker CXMT for use across products including iPhones and MacBooks, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.

The move could help Apple address pressure on component supplies as the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure drives stronger demand for memory chips and other semiconductor products.

Apple explores CXMT components

Apple has held preliminary discussions with CXMT, China's largest memory-chip manufacturer by market value, about potentially supplying components for some of its devices, the report said, citing people familiar with the matter.

The initial objective would reportedly be to use the components in products destined for the Chinese market.

Apple's testing of CXMT technology suggests the company is assessing additional sources of memory components at a time when semiconductor supply chains are being reshaped by surging demand linked to AI.

AI boom puts pressure on memory supply

The global expansion of AI systems has significantly increased demand for advanced computing infrastructure and memory components.

Technology companies are therefore looking for ways to secure sufficient supplies while managing costs and navigating increasingly complex international supply chains.

For Apple, expanding its potential supplier base could provide greater flexibility if memory components become more difficult or expensive to source from established manufacturers.

China’s semiconductor industry seeks greater role

CXMT has emerged as a major player in China's domestic semiconductor sector as Beijing seeks to reduce the country's dependence on foreign chip technology.

Any move by Apple to incorporate CXMT memory into selected products would represent a notable development for the Chinese chipmaker and could strengthen its position in the global semiconductor supply chain.

However, the reported discussions remain at an early stage, and testing does not necessarily mean that Apple has decided to use CXMT components in mass-produced devices.

Potential implications for Apple’s China strategy

The reported talks could also have significance for Apple's manufacturing and commercial operations in China.

Using locally produced components in devices intended for the Chinese market could help Apple adapt to evolving supply-chain conditions while maintaining access to one of its most important markets.

For now, the company appears to be evaluating whether CXMT's memory products can meet its technical and quality requirements as the global semiconductor industry responds to the accelerating demand generated by artificial intelligence.