The Daily Apple’s Bet on China
Jun 14, 2021
Jack Nicas, a Technology reporter for The New York Times, dives into Apple's evolving relationship with China, chronicling its journey from dependency to compromise. He discusses how Apple, once the titan of the tech world, faces unprecedented challenges as China wields its own influence. Compromising on customer data privacy, Apple navigates a landscape replete with censorship and government demands. The conversation sheds light on the broader implications for multinational corporations grappling with China's strict regulations and the rising tide of authoritarianism.
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Apple's Revival
- In the late 1990s, Apple, on the brink of bankruptcy, brought back Steve Jobs.
- Jobs led the creation of hit products like the colorful iMac and the iPod, reviving the company.
Move to Asia
- Tim Cook realized that US manufacturing was unsustainable due to high labor costs and a lack of a condensed supply chain.
- Apple's move to Asia coincided with China joining the WTO, offering more protections for foreign businesses.
Moving Mountains
- In 2004, a Chinese partner assured a former Apple executive that a mountain would be removed for an iPod factory.
- Months later, the mountain was gone, replaced by a functioning factory, showcasing China's commitment.