Nobody knows what happens to PC parts that never make it to market, but recent findings by a Chinese video streamer provide a clue about where rejected flash chips might end up. This discovery suggests that Apple may be offloading its rejected chips to the bargain bin in China. In this article, we delve into the details of this revelation and assess its implications.
The Discovery by a Chinese Video Streamer
Recently, a Chinese video streamer dismantled a cheap SSD and made a startling discovery. Upon examining the internals, the streamer found NAND flash chips that appeared to be originally intended for Apple products. This finding suggests that Apple may be disposing of its rejected chips in the Chinese market.
Details about the SSD and Its Brand
The SSD in question is branded ShineDisk and is priced at just $13. While it is an affordable option, the streamer’s discovery raises questions about the quality and origin of the components used in this inexpensive SSD.
Identification of the Flash Chips
Upon closer analysis, the streamer identified the NAND chips as allegedly manufactured by SK Hynix for Apple products. These chips are known as SK Hynix’s E2NAND, which are commonly used in Apple products and can be found on some Chinese e-commerce platforms.
Assessment of Chip Quality and Origin
According to the YouTuber, the flash chips found within the SSD appear to exhibit the quality expected from Apple. This suggests that the chips were designed for Apple rather than being discarded components. However, it is also plausible that these chips could have originated from rejected devices.
Connection to Apple Products
Considering that Apple used 128GB as the baseline storage for its MacBook Air notebooks, one possibility is that these chips were intended for those devices. However, it is important to note that this is speculative, and further investigation is necessary to validate this claim.
Apple’s Denial and Stance on Allegations
Given the potential reputational impact, it is unlikely that Apple would openly admit to offloading rejected chips to unsuspecting buyers in China. However, an email has been sent to [email protected] requesting a response to these allegations. This article will be updated once a response is received.
The recent discovery by a Chinese video streamer sheds light on the potential destination for rejected flash chips, hinting that Apple may be selling its rejected chips in the Chinese market through the bargain bin. While the authenticity and origin of these chips should be further investigated, this revelation raises questions about how major tech companies handle their rejected components and the potential impact on consumers. As we await further developments, we will continue to seek Apple’s response, providing an update on the situation.