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The launch of the iPhone 18 series is fast approaching, but the latest reports indicate that Apple is struggling with further problems in its supply chain. According to a TechPowerUp report, TSMC already has a huge stockpile of processors for Apple but cannot complete their production due to a shortage of DRAM. The chips involved could be worth as much as $1 billion.
TSMC has processors ready, but LPDDR5X memory is in short supply
According to the latest information, TSMC has amassed a large number of processors intended for Apple's upcoming devices. The problem is that the chips cannot be completed without delivery of the appropriate LPDDR5X DRAM from Apple's partners. Apple uses modern InFO-PoP technology, in which the RAM is mounted directly on top of the processor in a single package. This reduces the size of the motherboard and makes better use of the space inside the smartphone. However, until the memory reaches TSMC's factories, the packaging process cannot be completed. That means the finished processors remain in storage awaiting the final production stage. Reports say the integration of the memory with the chip itself can take up to two weeks, so there is less and less time before the launch of the new devices. In practice this means both Apple and TSMC will have to manage production very efficiently to meet the launch of the new models on time. It is unclear, however, whether the situation will affect the availability of the first batches of devices.
Apple seeks new memory suppliers, but the crisis is still being felt
Micron currently remains Apple's main supplier of LPDDR5X memory, although Apple also partners with Samsung and SK hynix. However, rising demand for memory used in AI-powered devices has significantly reduced their availability. Earlier reports indicated that Apple also tried to establish a partnership with the Chinese manufacturer CXMT, hoping to increase supplies and secure better prices on large orders. According to reports, those negotiations were unsuccessful. As a result, the iPhone maker remains reliant on its current partners and the limited supply of memory. The DRAM market crisis is now affecting virtually the entire electronics industry and impacting not only smartphones but also consoles, computers and AI servers. Apple has repeatedly emphasised in recent financial results that memory costs are steadily rising and may increase further in the coming months. This shows that the problem is not only logistical but also relates to the rising costs of producing new devices.
Although TSMC has already prepared processors for the iPhone 18 series, the lack of suitable LPDDR5X memory deliveries is preventing the completion of production. Apple is working hard to secure further supplies, but the strained situation in the DRAM market means the company will have to contend with a very demanding production schedule ahead of the launch of the new smartphones.
source: techpowerup
