Apple Boosts US Investment, Gets Tariff Exemption

At a White House ceremony, Apple CEO Tim Cook presented President Donald Trump with a custom, U.S.-made glass plaque on a 24-karat gold base, featuring Trump’s name, the Apple logo, Cook’s signature, and 'Made in USA,' crafted by Corning and designed by a former Marine now at Apple. Apple announced an additional $100 billion U.S. investment, bringing its total American manufacturing commitment to $600 billion over four years, and committed to making all iPhone and Apple Watch glass in Kentucky. The investment will also expand partnerships with suppliers like Corning, MP Materials, and Samsung, and launch a rare earth recycling line in California. Trump stated that U.S. manufacturers like Apple would be exempt from a planned 100% tariff on imported semiconductor chips, but warned of retroactive tariffs if companies reverse their U.S. investments. The event drew mixed reactions on social media, with some calling it a diplomatic gesture and others criticizing it as flattery for political favor. Most Apple devices will still be assembled abroad despite these measures.