Apple Begins AI Server Production at Texas Facility, Boosting US Manufacturing

Apple has begun shipping advanced artificial intelligence servers from its new manufacturing facility in Houston, Texas, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to invest $600 billion in the U.S. This facility, which opened ahead of schedule, is designed to support Apple's AI services such as Apple Intelligence and Private Cloud Compute, utilizing proprietary chips developed in-house. The Houston plant represents a strategic shift towards domestic manufacturing, creating thousands of jobs and aligning with President Donald Trump's encouragement for tech companies to increase production within the United States. CEO Tim Cook has engaged directly with President Trump to demonstrate Apple's dedication to expanding its U.S. manufacturing presence, particularly through initiatives targeting semiconductor production. Despite challenges in relocating large-scale iPhone assembly domestically, Apple is increasing its sourcing of key components from U.S. suppliers and collaborating with academic and industry partners to bolster the domestic manufacturing ecosystem. This expansion, alongside other tech firms like Nvidia and Foxconn, positions Houston as a burgeoning hub for AI manufacturing in the U.S.