Counterpoint Research analysis cited by South Korea's Chosun Biz, relayed by cnBeta, says some Chinese smartphone makers are considering reusing DRAM desoldered from old phones and computers in new handsets, and are even evaluating all-recycled memory in some entry-level models; no brands were named and the manufacturers have not publicly confirmed the plans. TechNews, citing anonymous industry sources, said some Chinese brands may buy salvaged memory from Shenzhen Huaqiangbei merchants, possibly sourced from old iPhones, while TrendForce said such claims are unconfirmed by Chinese regulators or phone companies and that recycled chips are more likely destined for very low-priced unbranded phones than flagship supply chains. Counterpoint said DRAM already in use for five to six years is being recycled and some chips may serve another five to six years; TrendForce estimated that for a typical 8GB DRAM plus 256GB storage configuration, memory contract prices in the first quarter of 2026 rose nearly 200% year on year, with memory's share of phone bill-of-materials rising from about 10-15% to 30-40%.