Apple has announced a bold initiative to invest $500 billion in the U.S. over the next four years. This includes constructing a cutting-edge AI server factory in Texas and generating 20,000 new research and development jobs across the country, reports Reuters.
The substantial investment will cover a range of projects, including sourcing materials from U.S. suppliers such as Corning, which manufactures iPhone glass in Kentucky, and supporting original content for Apple TV+.
While the company did not disclose how much of this spending is new, analysts estimate Apple already spends more than $150 billion annually in the US on goods, services, and operations.
A key part of the investment is a new 250,000-square-foot facility in Houston, Texas, developed in collaboration with Foxconn. The factory will manufacture servers for Apple's data centres, which power its AI-driven features, such as tools that help draft emails and automate tasks. These servers are currently produced outside the US, making this a notable shift in Apple's supply chain strategy.
Apple also announced it will double its Advanced Manufacturing Fund from $5 billion to $10 billion, with a portion dedicated to producing advanced silicon chips at Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co's (TSMC) Arizona facility. Last month, Apple began mass-producing its own chips at the TSMC plant, marking a milestone in its efforts to strengthen domestic semiconductor production.
In addition to these projects, Apple plans to open a manufacturing academy in Michigan, further states Reuters. The academy will reportedly offer free training programmes for small and mid-sized manufacturers, focusing on areas like project management and process optimisation.
Bd-pratidin English/ Afia
