Patrick McGee is the author of Apple in China: The Capture of the World’s Greatest Company. Our discussion led us through a detailed history of Apple’s relationship with China, where iPhone manufacturing became a project of nation-building.
Cohosting today is Kyle Chan of the High Capacity Substack.
Today, our conversation covers:
- Why Apple moved production to China in the 1990s, and why it struggles to leave,
- How Apple’s obsession with perfection catalyzed China’s industrial upgrading,
- The political side of production in China, including how Apple’s relationship with the Chinese authorities has evolved over time,
- The rise of Foxconn and other partners in Apple’s network,
- Fun anecdotes about Apple’s management style, including the “Divorce Avoidance Program.”
Read ChinaTalk's article China's AR glasses market here.
Outro music: Apple Blossom — The White Stripes (YouTube Link)
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