Apple Inc.
(NASDAQ:AAPL) is better positioned than its smartphone rivals to withstand the AI-driven memory shortage after building U.S. inventory levels beyond last year's tariff-related stockpiling, according to a new report.
Counterpoint Research said major smartphone makers accelerated inventory builds during the first half of 2026 as memory prices climbed and supply tightened because of surging artificial intelligence demand.
The buildup now exceeds the inventory accumulation seen in 2025, when companies rushed shipments ahead of potential U.S. tariffs.
Apple Strengthens Supply Chain Position Counterpoint analyst Tyler Graham said Apple has recovered from earlier supply constraints tied to iPhone 17 demand and now holds higher channel inventory than a year ago.
