Apple eyes Chinese memory chips as US senators raise security concerns

Apple Inc. is evaluating Chinese memory manufacturers CXMT (DRAM) and YMTC (NAND) as part of a strategy to diversify its component supply chain and lessen reliance on the dominant players Samsung, SK Hynix and Micron. The move follows a rise in DRAM and NAND prices that Apple said will continue into the next quarter and could affect the cost of iPhones, iPads and Macs.

In Washington, U.S. senators Jim Banks and Chuck Schumer publicly urged Apple to halt any negotiations with the Chinese firms, arguing that the companies pose a national‑security risk. YMTC is already listed on the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Entity List, heightening the concerns.

Apple has not confirmed that the Chinese chips will be used in devices sold outside China, but the company indicated that testing with CXMT chips is already underway.