Memory prices have recently rebounded, prompting memory manufacturers — including Micron — to change their posture. After years of absorbing price cuts during the industry downturn, these suppliers are now publicly criticizing certain customers, widely believed to be Apple and other large buyers, for forcing aggressive price reductions at the bottom of the cycle. The suppliers argue that such behavior squeezed their margins unfairly.
This "complaint after recovery" phenomenon highlights the cyclical nature of the memory market. During the trough, suppliers had little leverage and accepted unfavorable terms to maintain revenue. Now that demand is recovering and prices are rising, they are demanding more balanced pricing mechanisms. Industry analysts point out that the profit-sharing battle between Apple and memory makers will continue to influence long-term contract pricing and supply chain dynamics.
The situation underscores the constant power struggle in the semiconductor industry, where buyers and suppliers alternate bargaining power depending on market conditions. Whether this shift will lead to lasting changes in contract structures or remain a temporary cyclical event remains to be seen.