Apple is reportedly lobbying the Trump administration for permission to purchase memory chips from Chinese manufacturer CXMT, which is on a Pentagon blacklist over alleged ties to the Chinese military. The move comes as Apple looks to address rising memory chip costs and ongoing global supply shortages.
According to reports, Apple first approached the U.S. Commerce Department about a month ago and has since expanded its efforts to secure approval. While Apple is not legally prohibited from buying chips from CXMT, the company’s blacklist status creates regulatory and political challenges.
The push follows recent price increases for several Apple products, including Macs and iPads, which the company attributed to higher memory and storage costs. CEO Tim Cook recently suggested that all supply options should be considered, including Chinese manufacturers, if regulations allow it.
Sourced: 9to5Mac
