Apple Commits to $500 Bn Investment in US

The tech giant said the initiative would generate approximately 20,000 new jobs, with a significant focus on roles in research and development (R&D), software engineering, and artificial intelligence (AI). Apple emphasized that these positions would primarily support its innovation-driven divisions, including AI and next-generation technologies.

While the full breakdown of the investment remains unclear, Apple confirmed that the $500 billion would cover a broad range of activities, from spending on suppliers to expanding its media presence through Apple TV+ productions.

This announcement follows a meeting between Apple CEO Tim Cook and President Donald Trump, who has consistently advocated for increased corporate investment within the U.S. Apple’s pledge is framed as its "largest-ever spend commitment," aimed at bolstering American manufacturing and fostering innovation.

"We are optimistic about the future of American technology," said Tim Cook, reaffirming the company's confidence in U.S. industry.

The new 250,000 square-foot facility in Texas will produce servers for Apple Intelligence, Apple's AI system, a product previously manufactured outside the U.S. The facility will serve as a cornerstone of Apple’s strategy to localize more of its operations.

In addition to the Texas factory, Apple will also expand its data center infrastructure in North Carolina, Iowa, Oregon, Arizona, and Nevada. The company is also increasing its support for a fund dedicated to U.S. manufacturing—an initiative originally launched during Trump’s first term. The fund, which was previously set at $5 billion, will now be doubled to $10 billion.

Trump, who has made it clear that his trade policies aim to encourage companies to bring production back to the U.S., took to social media to take credit for Apple’s investment. "They’re investing in the U.S. because of the work we’ve done. Without us, they wouldn't be investing a dime," he wrote.

The announcement comes as Trump continues to push for U.S. companies to shift more of their production to domestic soil, using tariffs as a tool to make U.S.-based manufacturing more attractive. Last month, Trump imposed a 10% border tax on imports from China, where Apple currently has a substantial manufacturing presence. He has also signaled further tariffs on goods made in neighboring countries, including Mexico and Canada.

Despite the large sum, some experts caution that Apple’s new commitment may be more about optics than a true shift in strategy. Eileen Burbidge, a venture capital investor and founding partner of Passion Capital, pointed out that Apple has made similar announcements in the past, including a $350 billion investment in 2018 and a $430 billion investment commitment in 2021. Both prior announcements included plans to create 20,000 jobs over a span of five years.

"It’s starting to feel like business as usual," Burbidge told the BBC. "But of course, it’s music to Donald Trump's ears. Apple's announcement reflects its ongoing commitment to R&D, but the real impact on domestic manufacturing is still relatively small compared to the company's global operations."

While Apple’s increased focus on U.S. manufacturing may be strategically motivated, the investment aligns with political and economic priorities, underscoring a growing trend in corporate America to highlight domestic contributions amidst broader global challenges.