Apple CEO Cook Praises US Chip Manufacturing Efforts Amid Major Investment Plans

Tim Cook Praises Trump for Focus on US Chip Manufacturing

• Tim Cook's Remarks: Apple CEO, Tim Cook, virtually addressed a gathering of business executives to celebrate President Trump’s first 100 days in office. He thanked Trump for his focus on domestic semiconductor manufacturing and emphasized Apple’s significant investment plans in the United States.

• Apple's Investment: Apple announced a $500 billion investment over the next four years, which includes expanding teams and facilities across multiple states such as Michigan, Texas, California, Arizona, Nevada, Iowa, Oregon, North Carolina, and Washington. The company also plans to establish a new factory for advanced AI servers in Texas and double its US advanced manufacturing fund.

• Supply Chain Impact: Apple supports over 9,000 suppliers across all fifty states, sourcing components like those used for Face ID and the glass on iPhones. They expect to source more than $19 billion worth of chips from American companies this year, including millions of advanced chips from TSMC’s plant in Arizona.

• Previous Engagement: Cook has had several interactions with the Trump administration, including a meeting at Mar-a-Lago and a donation to Trump's inauguration fund. He has also been involved in discussions regarding tariffs and their impact on Apple’s business.

• Contextual Note: The article mentions that while Cook praised Trump, the significant expansion of TSMC’s investment and other advancements in domestic semiconductor manufacturing were made possible by the CHIPS Act signed into law by President Biden.