Archive · 10 Jan 2026
Apple Execs in South Korea for RAM Supply Talks
Apple is sending its top people to stay in hotels near big chip factories in South Korea.
They are trying to make deals for special computer memory chips called RAM.
These chips are very important for new iPhones.
The problem is that these chips are becoming more expensive and harder to find.
Other big tech companies like Dell and Google are also trying to buy these chips.
The reason there's a shortage is because many of these chips are being used to make special computers for artificial intelligence.
This could make iPhones more expensive or harder to find.
Apple executives are staying in hotels near Samsung and SK hynix facilities in South Korea to negotiate RAM supply contracts.
The company is seeking 2-3 year contracts for 12GB LPDDR5X RAM for upcoming iPhones.
RAM prices have surged to around $70 per unit, increasing production costs for Apple.
The global memory chip shortage is driven by high demand for AI hardware, diverting production from smartphone components.
Other tech giants like Dell and Google are also competing for limited DRAM supply, intensifying the situation.
- Who
- Apple, Dell, Google, Samsung Electronics, SK hynix
- What
- Apple executives negotiating long-term RAM supply contracts
- When
- Ongoing in 2025
- Where
- South Korea, near Samsung and SK hynix facilities
- Why
- Global memory chip shortage due to high AI hardware demand
- Company
- Apple
- Location
- South Korea
- RAM Type
- 12GB LPDDR5X
- Contract Duration
- 2-3 years
- RAM Cost
- $70 per unit
- Impact
- Potential iPhone delays or price increases
- Competitors
- Dell, Google
- Primary Driver
- AI hardware demand