ASML is considering raising prices for its EUV and DUV systems, with DUV prices increasing by 10%, despite resistance from TSMC, while Chinese companies have accepted higher DUV costs. Apple is actively seeking semiconductor startups for acquisition to bolster its in-house AI server chip capabilities, facing limitations with current M2 Ultra servers and delays to its "Baltra" chip. Samsung Electronics is poised to place over KRW 10 trillion in equipment orders for its Pyeongtaek Plant 5, targeting a 50%+ increase in production capacity for advanced DRAM, including HBM, by 2028.
Critical equipment costs are rising, forcing chipmakers to absorb higher capex or pass costs to AI customers, while Apple's in-house AI chip strategy faces significant hurdles.