Apple, according to industry sources, has begun an aggressive strategy of purchasing DRAM chips for mobile devices, even at significantly higher prices, which could have serious consequences for the entire market.
Due to the explosion in demand for memory caused by the development of AI systems, the global market is already under pressure. In such conditions, Apple allegedly buys large quantities of available chips, without classic negotiations with manufacturers such as Samsung Electronics and SK hynix, even accepting increased prices.
Apple is hoarding memory to limit competition
This move has a double effect. On the one hand, Apple ensures a stable supply for its products such as the MacBook Neo and the upcoming iPhone 17e model. On the other hand, competitors are left without enough components or are forced to pay significantly higher prices, which directly affects their production and market position.
Analysts believe that Apple is consciously accepting a lower profit margin in order to increase market share in the long term. The strategy resembles classic market pressure: short-term loss for the sake of long-term dominance.
There is an additional aspect to this strategy. Unlike other manufacturers who can reduce the amount of memory or other components to keep the price down, Apple has to maintain a high level of performance and a premium image of its devices. Therefore, a stable supply is a key priority.
However, this strategy also carries risks. If the memory market stabilizes in the short term, Apple could be left with large inventories purchased at high prices, which would directly hit profitability.
In any case, this move clearly shows how much memory has become a strategic resource in the era of artificial intelligence and how far companies are willing to go to secure an advantage in the market, reports LTN.