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Apple Now Stockpiling More Components Amid Rising Prices
MacRumors • • technology
Key Points:
- Apple has extended its OLED display panel inventory buffer from four weeks to six weeks starting in Q2 2026, marking a shift from its traditionally lean supply chain approach.
- This change is driven by rising component costs, particularly a sharp increase in memory chip prices, prompting Apple to stockpile more panels to stabilize prices.
- The company has already raised prices on 14 products, including all Macs and iPads, with the iPhone 18 Pro expected to see a price increase at launch.
- Samsung Display and LG Display remain Apple's main OLED suppliers for iPhones, with BOE providing a smaller share from China.
- Industry sources expect the longer inventory holding period to continue and potentially extend further following the launch of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.
