12GB内存价格飙升约230%！苹果iPhone 17及18系列生产成本承压

Core Insights - The ongoing global DRAM supply chain shortage is significantly testing Apple's cost control capabilities, with the price of 12GB LPDDR5X memory chips for the iPhone 17 Pro series soaring from $25-29 in early 2025 to over $70, representing a 230% increase [1][3] Group 1: Price Surge and Supply Chain Challenges - The price of 12GB LPDDR5X memory for the iPhone 17 Pro has increased by over 230%, from initial contracts of $25-29 to current prices exceeding $70 [3][5] - Apple is reportedly preparing various measures to address the recent surge in memory prices, having secured a significant amount of supply in advance compared to major manufacturers [2][4] Group 2: Contract Expiry and Future Implications - Apple faces potential risks from expiring supply chain contracts, with long-term DRAM supply agreements with major suppliers Samsung and SK Hynix set to end in January 2026 [5] - Samsung currently accounts for approximately 60% to 70% of Apple's DRAM chip shipments, making it challenging for Apple to find alternative suppliers in the short term [5] Group 3: Impact on Future Products - The cost crisis is particularly concerning for the upcoming iPhone 18 series, which is expected to enter mass production in February 2026 and will utilize advanced "six-channel LPDDR5X memory" to enhance bandwidth and AI performance [5][6] - If chip procurement costs remain high at $70, Apple may be forced to increase the prices of new devices to offset costs, making effective response strategies a priority [5][6] Group 4: Strategic Responses and Industry Outlook - Apple plans to reduce reliance on external suppliers by using its self-developed A20 series chips and C2 5G modems in flagship models, which could help mitigate some of the financial impact from rising memory chip prices [6] - The DRAM shortage is expected to persist until the fourth quarter of 2027, potentially affecting Android manufacturers more severely, as they may have to compromise on memory specifications or reintroduce lower-memory models [6]