Apple's upcoming iPhone 18 Pro models could face limited availability at launch because of a reported shortage of DRAM memory, potentially affecting production of the company's next-generation smartphones.
The reported supply issue is linked to Apple's A20 Pro chip, which is expected to power the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and the company's first foldable iPhone.
The chip is reportedly being produced using TSMC's advanced N2 process. While production yields and volume are said to be progressing well, completed wafers are reportedly waiting for DRAM memory to be packaged alongside the chips.
Apple seeks additional memory suppliers
Apple is reportedly working to secure sufficient DRAM supplies ahead of the new iPhone launch.
Memory manufacturers including Micron, SK Hynix and Samsung are reportedly among the suppliers being approached by Apple. The company is also said to be considering Chinese memory maker CXMT as another potential source.
A delay in securing enough DRAM could affect the number of iPhone 18 Pro units Apple is able to manufacture ahead of launch.
Pro models could face higher demand
The reported memory shortage could become more significant because Apple is expected to change its traditional iPhone launch strategy this year.
Current reports suggest that Apple may launch the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max during its usual autumn event, alongside a new foldable model reportedly referred to as the iPhone Ultra.
The standard iPhone 18, meanwhile, is reportedly being delayed until early 2027, potentially launching alongside a second-generation iPhone Air.
If that schedule materialises, Apple's Pro models would carry a larger share of demand during the traditional September launch period, increasing pressure on already constrained production capacity.
Longer wait times possible
Despite the reported supply concerns, Apple is said to remain confident that it can meet initial demand for the new models.
The bigger concern could come after the initial launch, with supply constraints potentially causing online order wait times to increase rapidly if production fails to keep pace with demand.
Customers looking to purchase an iPhone 18 Pro or Pro Max soon after launch could therefore face longer-than-usual delivery estimates.
Apple has yet to confirm the reports
The reported DRAM shortage and its potential impact on the iPhone 18 lineup remain unconfirmed.
Apple has not officially announced the iPhone 18 series, its launch schedule or its production plans. As a result, the exact effect of any memory supply constraints remains unclear.
If the reports prove accurate, however, Apple's next-generation Pro models could face tighter availability during the crucial launch period.
