Claims are growing that Apple has sold down with Chinese manufacturer CXMT to diversify its memory supply chain. The Apple-CXMT collaboration, eagerly awaited in the sector, is seen as a component of the company’s strategy to strengthen its hand against giants like Micron and Samsung. CXMT has officially stated that it is open to exploring collaboration opportunities with high-end customers worldwide. This statement is considered a strong indication that the discussions with Apple have reached a concrete level.

Production Capacity and Technological Development

CXMT aims to reach a monthly capacity of 300,000 wafers with three different 300mm DRAM factories by the end of the year. The company plans to increase its HBM-focused production to 50,000 wafers per month by the end of 2026.

On the technological side, the company continues mass production of LPDDR5X while officially starting LPDDR6 production. Additionally, a transition to HBM3 volume production is planned for later in the year.

To overcome the miniaturization limitations in production processes, the company uses High-k Metal Gate (HKMG) technology. This procedure, which uses materials such as hafnium oxide, reduces current leakage, increases power efficiency and process speed.

Strategic Balances and Market Impact

Apple’s move is being used as a valuable bargaining chip in negotiations with classic suppliers such as Micron, Samsung, SK Hynix, and Kioxia.

This process, taking place under the shadow of US-China technology restrictions

, is being valued by the Washington administration as a bargaining chip in diplomatic talks with China. Apple is expected to meet a portion of its annual memory requirement of approximately 600 million GB in the Chinese market through CXMT. However, the fact that CXMT’s production capacity is expected to operate at 95% capacity until the end of 2027 is a limiting factor in supply volume.

While this situation may not directly impact the Apple-Micron-Samsung competition

, it has the potential to change market dynamics.

The technology giant, seeking to offset the risk of rising memory prices , is trying to protect supplier diversity. CXMT’s production capacity

and technological capabilities position the company as a valuable player in the global market. Time will tell how Apple will manage its dependence in the supply chain with this collaboration.

How do you think Apple’s close collaboration with a Chinese manufacturer will affect the company’s long-term supply strategy?

Claims of an Apple-CXMT collaboration are strengthening. Apple is continuing discussions with the Chinese manufacturer CXMT to diversify its memory supply chain.