Most reports from industry insiders claimed that TSMC was stuck with a massive stockpile of processor wafers because Apple couldn't secure enough DRAM to finish packaging them. However, the newest information has effectively deemed it incorrect and suggests Apple has reduced its shipment forecast.
Effects of the RAM Crisis Are Going Strong
Ming-Chi Kuo has confirmed that Apple has indeed reduced its 2026 hardware shipment forecasts due to the ongoing RAM crisis. This information arrives after an earlier report suggested TSMC is stuck with a massive stockpile of processor wafers because Apple couldn't secure enough DRAM to finish packaging them.
Ming also said that Apple doesn't blindly manufacture processors. According to him, Apple coordinates with TSMC at least three months in advance, aligning processors with memory availability. And since there's no benefit to building a bottleneck of work-in-process chips, Apple wouldn't pay TSMC to stockpile them.
Kuo also debunked information from TSMC's Q2 2026 earnings call, where the foundry noted it'd be increasing its inventory. He explains that this is standard protocol because the brand is now ramping up the production of 2nm chips, not the entirety of chip production in general.
Besides, this inventory is not just Apple-related but also contains spare parts and finished goods for other firms like AMD and MediaTek, which could be the reason behind the large numbers.
Even if the $1 billion stockpile rumour is false, the underlying issue is still very real. Memory vendors are prioritising HBM for AI data centre contracts over consumer electronics, creating a severe bottleneck that's projected to last till 2029.
This has already caused a steep increase in smartphone prices, including hikes across Macs and iPads. It is also expected to impact the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Ultra foldable, both of which are expected to face severe stock shortages and increased pricing at their September launch.
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