It is possible that Apple, whose products are assembled in China, is being pressured by China to buy from Yangtze River, and it is not known what quantities are being discussed.

Analysts are sceptical about the ability of the emerging China-based memory fabs to deliver leading edge products with viable yields leads in high volume.

“The Chinese may be able to afford a great deal of capacity, but I don’t see them competing with the major suppliers on technology over the next five to 10 years,” said Bill McLean, president of IC Insights.

So, on the face of it, these reports about the Apple-Yangtze River engagement are an endorsement of China’s anticipated capabilities.

Yangtze River is expected to start running its first production wafers this year.