Apple has announced a bold $500 billion investment plan over the next four years, signaling a major push for innovation and U.S.-based manufacturing. The investment will include the construction of a large artificial intelligence (AI) server factory in Texas and the creation of 20,000 research and development jobs nationwide.
In collaboration with Foxconn, Apple plans to establish a 250,000-square-foot facility in Houston to assemble servers for its AI-driven services, a move that shifts production of these components to the U.S. for the first time. Apple’s push for advanced U.S. manufacturing is part of a broader strategy that involves increasing its Advanced Manufacturing Fund from $5 billion to $10 billion, with a focus on advanced silicon production at Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.’s (TSMC) Arizona factory.
While Apple’s products are predominantly assembled overseas, the company continues to source critical components from U.S.-based suppliers such as Corning (which produces iPhone glass in Kentucky) and Broadcom. The company’s commitment includes an increase in U.S. production of semiconductors, particularly with the support of the CHIPS Act, a key part of former President Donald Trump’s industrial policy.
Apple’s decision to boost U.S. investments follows its previous pledge in 2018, when it committed to $350 billion in investments over five years, a goal it surpassed early. This new initiative underscores Apple’s focus on U.S. economic growth, innovation, and creating high-quality jobs in critical industries.
Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, has received praise for the announcement, with analysts noting that despite the political undertones, this is a strategic business move aimed at fostering growth in AI and manufacturing sectors within the U.S.
This significant investment is seen as a critical step toward balancing Apple’s global supply chain and enhancing its technological capabilities within the U.S. workforce.
