Apple has announced plans to invest over $500 billion in the US over the next four years, including a new advanced manufacturing facility in Texas. The tech giant expects to create 20,000 new jobs, primarily in research and development, software, and artificial intelligence (AI).
While Apple described this as its “largest-ever spend commitment,” it’s unclear how much of this represents new spending versus previously planned activities. The figure includes spending on suppliers and Apple TV+ productions.
The announcement comes shortly after Apple CEO Tim Cook met with the former President, who has prioritized increased corporate investment in the US. Apple stated its investment would expand its support for American manufacturing.
The new 250,000 square foot factory in Houston, Texas, will produce servers for Apple Intelligence, the company’s AI system, that were previously manufactured outside the US. It is expected to open in 2026 and create “thousands” of jobs.
Apple is also expanding its data center capacity in several states and doubling its support for a US manufacturing fund, which it created during the previous administration.
The former President has publicly claimed this investment is partially a result of his trade policies, including tariffs. He has advocated for increased domestic manufacturing and has imposed tariffs on imports from China, where Apple has significant manufacturing operations.
Analysts suggest this investment is a strategic move by Apple to diversify its manufacturing and align with the administration’s emphasis on US investment. One analyst noted Cook’s ability to balance political considerations with his role as CEO.
Apple previously announced a $430 billion US investment in 2021, with a goal of adding 20,000 jobs over five years. Analysts believe this new announcement does not necessarily signal a significant shift in Apple’s overall manufacturing strategy in China, as the areas highlighted in this announcement are not central to their Chinese operations.
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