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Wednesday, July 8, 2026
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Apple testing CXMT memory chips for china devices while lobbying Trump admin for clearance
Apple is actively testing memory chips from China’s ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT) for devices sold in China, while simultaneously lobbying the Trump administration for assurances to incorporate the supplier amid a severe global DRAM shortage. According to the Financial Times and corroborating reports, Apple has begun qualification testing of CXMT’s DRAM products. Although the company has not yet committed to commercial volumes, the testing signals serious intent as it seeks to ease cost pressures and secure supply. AI-driven demand for high-bandwidth memory has diverted production from consumer-grade DRAM and LPDDR, causing sharp price spikes (some contracts up 50-60%). This forced Apple to implement rare price increases of up to 20% on MacBooks, iPads, and other hardware in late June. Adding CXMT (and potentially Yangtze Memory Technologies for NAND) would: • Diversify beyond Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron. • Strengthen Apple’s negotiating position on pricing and allocation. • Help guarantee supply through 2027, at least for China-market devices. CXMT’s Rapid Ascent CXMT, a CCP state-backed champion, has grown into the world’s fourth-largest DRAM producer with about 11% of global wafer capacity (forecast to hit 15% by 2028). It is mass-producing competitive DDR5 and LPDDR5X chips and preparing a major IPO. Geopolitical Risks CXMT remains on the Pentagon’s Section 1260H list of Chinese military-linked companies. While not outright banned for commercial purchase, deeper engagement could draw congressional criticism and regulatory scrutiny. Apple, including through direct engagement by outgoing CEO Tim Cook, is seeking political cover to mitigate that risk. MacDailyNews Take: This development reflects the intense strain the AI boom is exerting on supply chains. Even Apple with its massive purchasing power is turning to alternative sources as traditional suppliers prioritize higher-margin AI customers. Support MacDailyNews at no extra cost to you by using this link to shop at Amazon. The post Apple testing CXMT memory chips for china devices while lobbying Trump admin for clearance appeared first on MacDailyNews. Invite your friends and earn rewards
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EU court upholds DMA Rules on Apple’s iOS and App Store
Europe’s General Court on Wednesday dismissed Apple’s appeal against the European Commission’s decision to designate its iOS operating system and App Store as core platform services subject to the bloc’s strict Digital Markets Act (DMA). The ruling is a significant setback for Apple in its ongoing fight against the EU’s landmark antitrust rulebook, which aims to curb the power of big tech “gatekeepers” and open up competition in app distribution, payments, and related services. Apple has argued the rules threaten user privacy and security, and it can still appeal to the EU’s highest court. Edith Hancock for The Wall Street Journal:
Support MacDailyNews at no extra cost to you by using this link to shop at Amazon. The post EU court upholds DMA Rules on Apple’s iOS and App Store appeared first on MacDailyNews. You're currently a free subscriber to MacDailyNews. For the full experience, upgrade your subscription.
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