In a move that underscores Apple's continued investment in China’s tech ecosystem, CEO Tim Cook visited Hangzhou, the hometown of AI startup DeepSeek, to meet with what he called "the new generation of developers." During his visit, he announced a new Apple Mobile Application Incubation Fund in partnership with Zhejiang University, pledging approximately $4.1 million to help train and support emerging app developers. This incubator builds on a decade-long collaboration between Apple and the university, which has already supported thousands of students through competitions and training programs. Cook’s trip comes at a tense time for U.S.-China relations, with fresh trade restrictions targeting Chinese tech firms, but Apple remains committed to fostering local talent and green energy initiatives, expanding its China Clean Energy Fund with a $99.3 million investment in renewable projects.

Key Points:

• Tim Cook visited Hangzhou, China, where he met with local developers and Zhejiang University students.
• Apple announced a $4.1 million donation to Zhejiang University for the new Mobile Application Incubation Fund, aimed at training young developers.
• The incubator will provide technical training in app development and product design, reinforcing Apple’s decade-long collaboration with the university.
• Cook emphasized the importance of coding, stating, "We believe coding is a powerful tool that empowers people to create, communicate, and solve problems in entirely new ways."
• The visit coincides with new U.S. trade restrictions on dozens of Chinese tech firms, highlighting ongoing tensions between the two countries.
• Apple also committed nearly $99.3 million to renewable energy through the second phase of its China Clean Energy Fund, expanding its initiatives to make Chinese manufacturing more sustainable.

Even amidst geopolitical challenges, Apple is doubling down on its efforts to cultivate digital talent and promote sustainable energy solutions in China—a crucial market for the company’s future.
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